Lightning Boys 2: True Tales from Pilots and Engineers of the RAF's Iconic Supersonic Fighter

Richard Pike joined the RAF in 1961, flew the English Electric Lightning, and later the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom. He became a civilian helicopter pilot and served in Kosovo, delivering emergency humanitarian aid. He and his wife live in Aberdeenshire.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2018
Publisher: Grub Street Publishing

In 1961, Richard Pike embarked on a remarkable journey as a flight cadet at the RAF College, Cranwell. His dedication and hard work paid off when he graduated with honors, earning the prestigious Dickson Trophy and Michael Hill memorial prize for his exceptional flying skills. Over the course of his forty-year flying career, Pike had the privilege of piloting the English Electric Lightning, a remarkable aircraft, before transitioning to the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom. After leaving the Royal Air Force, Pike embraced a new chapter as a civilian helicopter pilot. His duties took him to diverse destinations both at home and abroad, including the Falkland Islands, not long after the conclusion of the Falklands War. His final assignment was in Kosovo, where he played a crucial role in distributing emergency humanitarian aid on behalf of the United Nations World Food Programme. Pike's commitment to service extended beyond his military career, as he and his wife settled in the picturesque Aberdeenshire region. His remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike, showcasing the profound impact that dedication and passion can have on one's professional life.

Weight: 472g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911621065