Hi, I’m supposed to be going flying next Tuesday but I’m worried I won’t be able to, I’m a very small cadet at 5 ft and was wondering if it would be worth going or not because I’m so small.
The restrictions on size are not really height related.
Because Woodvale is by the sea, you’ll need to wear a Life Jacket whilst in the air. This means the smallest parachute you can wear is a medium. If the parachute straps are too loose around your chest, the parachute won’t work properly.
Unfortunately, it’s down to the survival fitters on duty to decide if the straps are too loose.
Some of my smaller cadets (of a similar height to you) have flown.
Unless you have a tiny frame, I would say it’s worth a shot.
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At the other end of the scale (literally), there was a cadet at an AEF this week who weighed (kitted out) over 130 kg! No fly - parachute restriction - high probability of splitting on opening if he had had to jump out!
Thank you so much, this help, I have a relatively small frame, but a reasonably broad shoulders and chest for my size!
What would you consider a tiny - small frame, just so I can get a rough idea!
Pity the Chinooks and Merlins aren’t still there from last week.
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It’s all subjective really, but I would say that unless you have been issued the smallest size cadet shirts, and they’re baggy on you, there is a reasonable chance you’ll fly. Having broader shoulders is a good thing - the survival equipment fitter needs to make sure the parachute straps will stay on your shoulders.
I would definitely go - the worst thing that can happen is that you don’t fly, and then you’re in the exactly same boat as if you hadn’t gone.
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I know I haven’t been issued the smallest shirt, because I tired on some that where too small, thank you so much for your help
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They were very very broken…
Caused me no end of hassle.
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Kept you employed though 
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Whenever I spot a cadet at Woodvale, I always offer them a look around 611 Sqn (RAuxAF, not ATC).
I’m normally there the second weekend of every month, so if you’re there for the VGS etc and anticipate having a bit of downtime, I’m very happy to entertain for about 30mins a pop.
Have your staff member come and ask for me (or email my cadet email in advance).
If anyone is preparing for things like OASC, I’ll sit down with you and do a current affairs wrap-up.
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Nose bleeds from coming so far north ?
11.RAFAC Weight Requirements. Passengers flying in the Tutor must comply with certain weight restrictions. OC RAFAC Squadrons and Escorting Officers (EO) should note that Air Cadets who are too heavy or too light will not be allowed to fly; they should not be selected in the first place to avoid embarrassment and a wasted slot. At most sites, the weight of a fully clothed Air Cadet (without flying clothing and helmet) must be between 28 kg and 110 kg. At sites where a life jacket is worn (Glasgow International Airport, Leuchars Station, MoD St Athan, RAF Woodvale and Cornwall Airport Newquay), the Air Cadet should weigh between 25 kg and 107 kg. Care should also be taken for cadets of a small stature to ensure that the relevant safety equipment (parachutes and/or life jackets) will fit and allow the cadet to fly e.g. can a shorter individual wear the parachute without affecting arm movement or posture. Any concerns of this nature should be raised in the first instance with the Wing/CCF Aviation Officer.
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It will definitely be down to the Squippers and probably worth a trip just to be sure. It’s cold enough now that cold weather jackets are mandatory when flying so this will build you out a bit.
Don’t give up.
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Never seen these before at 5AEF or 7AEF - was about 3-4C the other day, no jackets for cadets.
Thank you all for your help, I going to give it a go!
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I’ve got a new job now. So it really did cause me a headache.
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What sorts of weather prevents flying, is rain one of them or if it just wind and visibility?
Rain
Frost / Snow (generally no de-icing options for the aircraft, taxiways or runway)
Wind (limit for parachute landing)
Reduced visibility
Low cloud base
In short, they need to have “Visual Meteorological Conditions” or VMC.
Previous discussion here - there are others…
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