After a competitive selection process, Squadron Leader Mark ‘Disco’ Discombe has been selected as a future OC BBMF (Battle of Britain Memorial Flight). With a background as a Jaguar pilot, ‘Disco’ is currently employed as the Deputy Chief Flying Instructor with No 3 Flying Training School at RAF Cranwell.
Sqn Ldr DiscombeHe has already started his work-up training on the BBMF Chipmunks; he will be required to fly at least 25 hours in the ‘Chippies’ during the winter months, learning the propeller ‘tail-dragger’ skills needed before he starts flying the Hurricanes in the spring of 2015.
He will complete four years as a volunteer pilot with the Flight, working the 2015 display season under the current ‘Boss’, Sqn Ldr Dunc Mason, and then the next three years under the OC designate, Sqn Ldr Andy ‘Milli’ Millikin.
During these four years ‘Disco’ will learn the necessary skills and develop the required experience to take on the roles of BBMF Fighter Training Officer and Air Test Pilot, as well as being ready to take command of the BBMF at the end of the 2018 display season.