Twenty aircraft handlers have celebrated their "passing in" parade at RNAS Culdrose, after six months of intensive training.

The parade marked the completion of the first stage of aircraft handling training before the group embark on front line operations. Giving out the awards, Royal Navy Commander Jonathan Bird addressed the crowd and said: “The aircraft handlers are the last contact you have with a ship when you take off, and the first when you return. They are a welcome sight.”

Naval Airman (Aircraft Handler) (NA(AH)) Charlotte Cook, the only female on the course, was delighted to commemorate this milestone in her career. She said: "It means a lot to be here today, being the only girl can be challenging, and I’ve had to push myself hard, but it’s been worth it.”

NA(AH) Simon Dawson was awarded the trophy for best trainee on the course. He said: “It was a total surprise and I had no idea I was going to receive the award. It’s great that my family has been here to celebrate with me. My sister is crying and so is my girlfriend, but they are tears of happiness. It’s been six months of hard work and I am relieved to be here.”

The 20 aircraft handlers will now disperse and go onto various units and ships across the globe. They will pplay an essential role on the flight decks of the Royal Navy’s two new aircraft carriers. Some have been selected to work on the future aircraft carrier programme working with the United States Navy at various air stations throughout America. They are all rightly excited about their future.

This sentiment was captured by Commander Jonathan Bird when he concluded the proceedings by saying:

“The trust we have in our aircraft handlers is not given lightly, but earned through continued hard work and skills taught here. Aviation can be a dangerous game, but the future is bright for the Fleet Air Arm and you will all play a vital role.”