interview with Rick Peacock-Edward’s, a former RAF pilot, detailing his journey influenced by his Battle of Britain pilot father. He explains how his father's experiences and a single conversation led him to join the Royal Air Force rather than the South African Air Force. Rick recounts his training, his first solo jet flight, and his favourite aircraft, particularly the Lightning and the Gnat. He shares anecdotes about intercepting Russian aircraft during the Cold War and highlights leadership challenges, including introducing the Tornado aircraft into RAF service and leading during the Gulf War. Rick emphasizes the importance of being oneself in leadership roles and expresses nostalgia for the hands-on flying experiences of his era. He also reflects on the evolution of military aviation, the potential future of unmanned aircraft, and advises young aspiring pilots to seize opportunities in the RAF. Lastly, Rick touches upon his rewarding post-RAF career and the different paths it has taken.


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Books by Rick Peacock-Edward’s available at amazon, and all good book stores.
Rate of Climb: Thrilling Personal Reminiscences from a Fighter Pilot and Leader - https://amzn.eu/d/93gYSCf
Gnat Boys: True Tales from RAF, Indian and Finnish Fighter Pilots Who Flew the Single-Seat Training and Fighter Aircraft - https://amzn.eu/d/2k6x6NN
Coming soon: 
Teddy Peacock-Edwards: Battle of Britain Pilot and Second World War Ace https://amzn.eu/d/f1WSO1v

00:00  Introduction to the Fly Pod

00:21  Rick's Early Influences and Decision to Join the Air Force

01:58  Journey to Becoming a Fighter Pilot

06:01  First Solo Flight and Training Experiences

08:35  Favorite Aircraft and Memorable Missions

13:18  Intercepting Russian Aircraft During the Cold War

24:41  Leadership Challenges and Personal Insights

27:03  Navigating Social Dynamics in the Air Force

27:39  Challenges of Introducing the Tornado Fighter

29:39  Evolution of Military Aviation

33:18  The Rise of Drone Technology and AI

34:28  Reflections on a Rewarding Career

39:00  Mentors and Influences

41:45  Advice for Aspiring Fighter Pilots

47:13  Quick Fire Questions and Personal Insights

52:40  Concluding Thoughts and Podcast Outro