TAKE-OFFTHE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER FOR THE SINGAPORE YOUTH FLYING CLUB

March Issue 2018MCI(P) 30/11/2017 SINCE 1971

04 Alumni & StaffCohesion Activity 14 Scouts Visit 17 CCA15 Navigation Trip

to Subang, KL

The last quarter of the work year had been exciting for us as we participated in Asia’s largest aviation event - Singapore Air Show 2018. The event was held at the Changi Exhibition Centre from 6th to 11th Feb. SYFC had our own stand-alone booth where we featured the CCA as well as the Basic Flying Course programmes.

In conjunction with this major aviation event, SYFC also partnered with Girls In Tech Singapore and Lockheed Martin in conducting a reach out event held at SYFC premise. The objective of this event was to reach out to young females to promote education and career in the field of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). The inaugural event was a success as we saw the active participation of about 50 female students from various schools.

As we draw into the last month of our work year, we are very pleased to note that we have achieved most of the objectives set out in the beginning of the year. This would not have been possible if not for the hard work put in by our staff. We are also thankful to the school leaders and teachers we have been working with, whom have rendered their support to us in fulfilling the good cause of SYFC.

CONTENTSEditorial AdvisorCOL (NS) Foo Yang Ge

General Manager

EditorsMs Pang Mee Ling

Corporate Support Manager

Mr Daniel Tan Operations Manager

Mr Chan Jee Siong,

MembersMr David Su

CCA Manager

Mr Kevin Su Aeromodelling Instructor

Ms Rilvia Lim

Singapore Youth Flying Club. While every

Editor, the Club and its Committee do not accept liability for any damage, personal or material, arising whether directly or indirectly from any article published in this newsletter. Views or opinions expressed here are entirely the contributors’ and

of the Club or members of the Editorial Committee.

No portion of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means – electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise – without prior written permission from the Singapore Youth Flying Club. Copyright 2001 by Singapore Youth Flying Club. All rights reserved.

Pg 3 1st SoloPg 4 Alumni & Staff Cohesion Activity (kayaking)Pg 6 New Courses Pg 7

Pearce Trip

Pg 10

SYFC PPL GraduatesPg 12

Singapore Airshow 2018

Pg 14

Girls in Tech + ScoutsPg 15

Navigation Trip to Subang, KL

Pg 17

CCA

Singapore Youth Flying Club 515 West Camp RoadSingapore 797695.Tel: 6483 5621Website: www.syfc.sgEmail: info@syfc.sg

Warmest regardsCOL (NS) Foo Yang GeGeneral ManagerSingapore Youth Flying Club

GM’s Foreword

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SYFC will continue to reach out to the young by seeking to work with more external organisations in the same field to promote interest in aviation as well as by enhancing our programmes and activities. With a vision to expand our reach, we look forward to welcoming a new work year.

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CHIAM YTPAC-17

YEO RTP-12

M KHAIRULRP-5

TAN SHTP12-17

NG JWTP12-17

SOH ZKTP12-17

RORY KTP-12

1st SOLO

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ALUMNI & STAFFCOHESION ACTIVITY(KAYAKING)

Kayaking for sports day was a great bonding activity with fellow alumni, old and new, instructors and current students!

It was very apparent that communication and coordination was essential in this sport when some of the kayaks couldn't even paddle straight! We were paired into the double seater kayaks, with the experienced paired up with the less experienced; some senior alumni were paired with the junior alumni, some were paired with instructors. I was paired with one of the new instructors.

When we first sat in the kayak, we were both tense about capsizing and kept shifting our weight around the boat trying the balance it, which ironically made it unstable. Eventually we figured out that we had to relax and trust each other not to make any sudden movements or shifts in weight to achieve stability. Fortunately, moving forward was no problem for us as we were able to coordinate our strokes together. After paddling out to the open water, we rafted up with the other kayaks where we learnt new strokes such as the J-Draw and teamed up with other boats for a few races. One of the games required us to raft up with two other boats and race together as a three-boat unit against other rafted teams. We needed to work together as a team, each boat and each person to play their role in paddling, steering and coordinating the strokes in order the propel our bulky raft forward. Another activity tested our confidence in our partner as we were to attempt to stand up in our kayaks and paddle forward like a paddle board while the other kept the boat balanced. The real challenge was in trying to get both of us to stand up at the same time. After the activities and challenges, we were allowed to go free and easy where we splashed water and hurled the surrounding water weeds at one another before heading back for a catered lunch together.

Overall, the conduct was smooth, the kayaking instructors were clear in their brief and instructions. Lunch was great! I had a superb time and the only thing that i could wish for would be more time in the water! I strongly look forward to the next event!

Ryan Lee 212 BFC

13 Dec 2017

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The SYFC kayaking event was one that was highly anticipated. It was the first sports event that was co-organised by the Alumni and the SYFC Management and many - myself included - were curious as to how it would unfold.

It definitely lived up to and exceeded expectations as we (the Alumni) and soon-to-be PPL graduates took to the kayaks in pairs and had a series of mini competitions with staff, instructors, and one another on water. Not just that, we also engaged in non-competitive - but nonetheless fierce - games of attacking one another with water (and the occasional algae). It was definitely an activity that allowed us to look past Instructor-Student and Older-Younger Alumni boundaries, and escape the particular stresses each of us faced in our own walks of life, to simply enjoy a sport together. Thereafter, it also made the buffet lunch one that was enjoyable and filled with interactions between participants. Personally, through this event, I managed to catch up, meet new people, and re-introduce myself back into the SYFC environment that I had been away from for months.

In all, the water sport provided a welcome opportunity for us to have fun and get to know one another beyond what we usually knew each to be in the air and land. I believe that from this small success, I am not the only one already looking forward to the next event.

Chong Si QIng208 BFC

230 BFC

231 BFC

232 BFC

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NEW COURSES

Having completed my journey and attaining the coveted Private Pilot License, I was given the opportunity to go on the annual visit to RAAF Pearce airbase with SYFC. Just this alone was an amazing chance for me as going for the SYFC’s annual Pearce trip has always been one of my main motivations and goals when I first saw the poster as a mere BFC student. It was the key driving factor that pushed me to constantly strive for the best in everything I do, regardless of flying or attitude. As someone that has the intention of signing on with the RSAF, this trip really allowed me to have a foresight of what my life could and would be in the near future.

Aside from touring the RAAF airbase, opportunities were given to us to experience what life as a RSAF trainee pilot would be like. This included following through with their daily schedules, having frequent interactive sessions with the current trainees as well as trying out the OFS (Operational Fight Simulator), DTD (Desktop Training Device) and FTD (Flight Training Device). It is through all these services provided that we are once again able to observe the quality training that RSAF is able to provide for their pilot trainees. As military personnel, the trainees’ physical fitness are also ensured with either sports or PT trainings twice a week. Just from the few days of interactions with the trainees at the camp, it is obvious that the sense of camaraderie amongst them is extremely strong, most prominently seen when they are playing sports. Even in SYFC, I strongly believe that having the support of your course mates is one of the key factors leading to the success of obtaining the PPL. In Pearce BWC, the trainees’ sense of teamwork and support for one another is truly inspirational for me as I see them go through this tough journey together. After seeing this, I am now all the more grateful for the peers and instructors that have been by my side, guiding and helping me every step of the way towards my PPL.

Another key aspect that I felt was important as a BWC trainee would be determination together with positivity. Due to the nature of the training, it is just the truth that anyone around you could be flying back to Singapore anytime, including yourself. Though this harsh reality can be discouraging to some, but to most of the trainees there, it acts as a constant wakeup call that constantly keeps them on the edge. This also pushes them to always stay positive and not give up till it is really over. This training structure also reminded me not to take anything for granted and to take every flight as if it is the last opportunity I will get.

Not only will this make me put in my best effort into everything I do, it will also help set me in the right mind-set that I am privileged to have the chance given.

As part of the Pearce trip, I was also lucky enough to be the only one that received a joyride on the PC-21, a training aircraft that is currently used in 130 Squadron for the training of the future RSAF pilots. Together with Captain Leow Y ‘Echo’, we took to the skies as he showed me the capabilities of the state-of-the-art aircraft through various manoeuvres and aerobatics. This was definitely an extremely eye-opening experience as it was my first time experiencing aerobatics as well as G-forces that went as high as 6Gs. Along the way, I was also shown the beauty that Pearce had to offer, including clear blue seas that stretched to the horizons and miles of land that seem to go on forever. It was a fresh change of scenery as compared to the small city of Singapore that is packed with high-rise buildings. I am exceptionally grateful to SYFC for giving me such a fantastic opportunity on the PC-21 as it glides effortlessly as 13,000ft, showing off the breath-taking scenery of Western Australia.

Now, after seeing what the trainees have to go through and having deeper understanding of what its like to fly as a military pilot, despite being a female and the only child, I am more than certain of my decision to sign on with the RSAF. I know that this is the life that I want to live, a life full of ups and downs, excitement and challenges, thrill and fulfilment.

“A ship will always be safe in harbour, but that’s not what it’s built for.” - William G.T. SheddI am the ship and the open sea is the future I hope to have with the RSAF. Definitely, I am scared, but I am willing to stand up and embrace what this military organisation can offer me, both the good and the bad.

Last but not least, I would like to sincerely thank everyone from SYFC that have made this experience possible for me, I wouldn’t have traded it for anything else!

Khor Huan NiSYFC Alumni (PAC16)

PEARCE TRIP

ANNEX BTO SYFC/01-01-02DATED 15 FEB 18

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28 Jan to 3 Mar 2018

Continued on next page

My journey to 130 Squadron officially commenced when our flight landed on time in Perth airport. Boarding the 10-seater vans our instructors rented, we embarked on a 30mins road trip to RAAF airbase. We could immediately feel the difference between Singapore and Australia, the time was only 9pm yet all stores were closed and vehicles were few on the roads. The idea of taking a break away from the hustle and bustle of city life in Singapore filled us with excitement. Upon arrival at RAAF airbase, we were greeted by the cooling night breeze of Western Australia which rejuvenated our souls. After a quick tour of our accommodations, we settled in for the night.

Prior to visiting the squadron, we had a hearty breakfast in the mess annex. There was a variety of food to choose from and what intrigued me the most was how the mess serve as a venue for interactions between RSAF’s trainees and RAAF’s trainees over a meal. Subsequently, we had a tour around the entire squadron to familiarise ourselves with the various facilities. Their operations room was a stark contrast from what we have in SYFC, essential information was presented in a clear and succinct manner on LCD screens. Although the operations room was constantly busy, every pilot walking through was focused on their task at hand. While we admire their professionalism, it was definitely a culture shock for all of us. We were also introduced to the Flight Training Devices (FTDs) in which trainees could use to familiarise themselves with the aircraft checks and procedures. We had a go at the FTDs’ multiplayer function and had a dog fight amongst ourselves. At the end of the day, we also sat in for their End of Day Debrief in which trainees share lessons learnt on that day as well as a emergency brief presented by one of the trainees. The quiz master also made sure everyone was well prepared by choosing a random trainee to answer an impromptu question. I find that such impromptu practices play a crucial role in ensuring that trainees are able to think fast on their feet should an emergency occur in the air. They would then be able to react accordingly in a calm manner to recover the aircraft.

On other days, we were able to interact with the trainees from different Basic Wings Course (BWC) for a comprehensive sharing of different viewpoints at various stages of BWC. A handful of the trainees were PPL graduates and they shared the importance of not becoming complacent as it was a level playing field after the first solo flight. It is also reassuring to hear from other trainees without a PPL share that even the basic flying course in SYFC would help us tremendously in Air Grading Courses (AGC). Aside from their flying activities, they also shared with us on more casual matters such as how they spend their weekends as well as how they keep in contact with their loved ones back home. I am extremely appreciative for the valuable insights provided by the trainees as understanding their struggles in BWC provided me a more authentic feel of what life is like as a trainee and cleared my doubts on various questions. Apart from flying duties, each of them also take up roles in the squadron to ensure the daily operations go on smoothly.

While some of these task might seem mundane, it plays a huge role in maintaining an operationally ready squadron and I admire how trainees execute these tasks with pride and dedication. Additionally, we attended a mess event held to commemorate an outgoing flying instructor. Prior to the mess event, we also had the honour to witness a rare formation flying led by the outgoing flying instructor on the PC-21s. During this event, the entire squadron came together to socialise with one another over a drink. At that moment, it was as though rank did not matter as both instructors and trainees enjoy themselves in the cheerful atmosphere. It was apparent that in 130 squadron, everyone is part of a close knitted family- one with a common passion in flying.

While visiting the squadron was the main agenda of this trip, the highlight of the trip was definitely the people that accompanied me throughout this journey. They were the ones who always had my back, and I learned a lot from them during our interactions. All of us came from diverse backgrounds, but it was our love for flying that brought us together. I will not forget the meal time jokes we shared, the quirky riddles as well as the time we spent stargazing together. Like the Super Blue Blood Moon Lunar eclipse we witnessed together, it was an once in a lifetime experience for all of us. Within a short span of six days, we forged new friendships and I hold these precious memories close to my heart. Let us all work together in pursuing our common dream.

My trip to Pearce was nothing short of amazing, the valuable insights I have gained and newfound friendships reaffirms my aspiration to make aviation a part of my future. Not being able to fly the PC-21 during this visit only increased my hunger for flying, and I will continue to press on until the day I lay my hands on the PC-21.

Pang Bao Bin222-2 BFC

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Having earned my PPL, I was given the opportunity to participate in the SYFC Pearce Trip. I’ve long desired to go for the trip since I joined SYFC, and it’s safe to say that my experience in Australia far exceeded my wildest expectations.

The main objective of this trip was to get a glimpse of the life of a BWC trainee in 130 Squadron, and naturally, we spent most of our time interacting with BWC courses of various seniorities. Without a shadow of doubt, this was my personal highlight of the trip. Through talking to the BWC trainees, I’ve come to realise that they are a truly incredible bunch of people. They are all highly motivated and driven to earn their wings, which was genuinely inspiring and heartwarming.

In our conversations, they were candid and open, showing us that the life of a pilot trainee or even an operational RSAF pilot was far from an idyllic bed of roses. Coming from NCC and SYFC, I had a vague idea of the demanding rigours of military culture. Nevertheless, the reality of BWC was a culture shock and it was evident that the instructors pushed every trainee to their limit and beyond. Each trainee also had a unique and special story to tell. From personal difficulties to review sorties, every trainee I talked to had encountered their fair share of obstacles, but were able to surmount them through sheer determination.

I admire the common motivation and zeal shared by the trainees. Despite being fully cognizant of the adversity they face, they found purpose in being a pilot trainee in the RSAF.

Something else that struck me deeply was the wonderful camaraderie each course has. Even though they come from different backgrounds, they worked cohesively for each other. The inseparable bonds they shared were strikingly evident, and they push each other to pull through their bleakest moments.

Such experiences reflected their insatiable drive to endure short term hardships to achieve their long term aims collectively as a course. Indeed, my interaction with them has affirmed my desire to be a pilot in the RSAF in the pursuit of such self-actualisation.

During the time I spent in the airbase, I was also privileged to have the opportunity to interact with several instructors from both 130 Squadron and Standards Squadron. Initially, they gave us the impression that they were ostensibly intimidating, especially when they incessantly castigated cadets during the daily End of Day Debriefs (EODDs).

Yet beneath a façade of firmness, I soon discovered that the instructors are actually very nice and kind individuals. As members of the RSAF, it is necessary for them to be tough on trainees to ensure that they can work well under pressure and meet the high standards of being an operational pilot defending our homeland. Moreover, it dawned on me that they are highly critical of cadets only because they genuinely care for their development and want the cadets to correct their mistakes. Even though I did not know some of the other SYFC trainees, the trip has given me the opportunity to forge tightly-knit friendships with them, as well as catch up with old friends. As eclectic as some of us may be, we were naturally united by our common passion for aviation. Regardless of whether we were BFC or PPL students, we moulded well and forged incredible memories throughout the entire trip. From our late night sports games, to the dreamy stargazing bout, to out of base visits and everything in between, it’s been an absolute pleasure to have been with each friend. I treasure our friendships, and I’m confident they will last. I’m genuinely grateful to have met everyone, and it wouldn’t have been the same without any of them.

Last but definitely not least, I’m also immensely grateful to have gone for the trip with GM, Mr Lee SL and Mr Siva. They worked unflaggingly to ensure that we were disciplined and safe. The SYFC instructors never once hesitated to go the extra mile to provide to our needs and tirelessly drove us around. In retrospect, even though it might not have been initially apparent, GM, Mr Lee SL and Mr Siva also worked hard behind the scenes to plan the entire trip. Without them, none of this would have been possible, and I really appreciate their effort.

The one week in Pearce have been an unforgettable journey of discovery and revelation. From my ever convivial SYFC friends, to the undying resilience and camaraderie of the BWC courses, to the rigour of the instructors, every person I met on this journey have shaped it into a truly engaging and insightful experience. Their generous warmth and abundant dedication have touched me. Ultimately, this trip was defined by the people I met, and they’ve given me enduring memories to last a lifetime. Thank you all!

Joseph See YSYFC Alumni (ACSI3-16)

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“Why do you want to fly with the Singapore Youth Flying Club (SYFC)?” then General Manager COL(NS) Andy Tan had posed this question to me. Being the 17-year-old that I was, I told him I found out about the SYFC from a friend, thought that it would be a cool skill to acquire and that it would test my mental skills and coordination -- I was up for a challenge. With the benefit of hindsight, I’d say my 17-year-old self didn’t answer too poorly, but this is what I would say now. Learning to fly is not easy, but it is rewarding -- you learn that you have to work hard and smart, to prepare not only for the task at hand, but also for various contingencies and alternative scenarios. Learning to fly makes you a more confident person, not only because of the “cool” skill you acquire, but also because you take-off and fly solo knowing you are prepared to handle whatever situation comes your way and that you can bring yourself and your aircraft back safely. Lastly, apart from the skills honed and the perseverance forged through the process, the SYFC provides a conducive environment to learn to fly and allows you to forge life-long friendships with like-minded individuals.

“Would you make SYFC a priority?” he asked next, without missing a beat. This was a difficult question for me to answer at the time as I already had to manage my academic workload and my netball commitments. However, I was determined to that learning to fly was a worthwhile endeavour and I told him, that in spite of this, I would make time. I left the room unsure of how I performed in the interview, but was eventually notified that I had been successful. Thus began my journey to become a pilot.

The JourneyIn early 2007, I joined BFC 151 and started training on the PA-28-161 Piper Warrior II. The training allowed me to appreciate that learning to fly was a very involved process - other than the actual mechanics of flying, we had to learn about Human Performance and Limitations, Radio Telephony, Weather and Meteorology among other topics. Many of these topics tend to be taken for granted when we learn how to drive: there is no need for drivers to communicate with one another, except with our turn signals, but pilots need to talk to each other and to air traffic controllers to keep safe separation and get clearances. Hence, the need to communicate in a standard way so everyone can be on the same page.

While I applied myself diligently to prepare as well as I could for the flight, what I discovered was that merely knowing how to do something was not enough -- to be able to execute it well, in a short amount of time, was paramount. However, it is important to remember that this journey is not undertaken alone and what you can learn from experienced instructors and even seniors of the programme sometimes far outweighs the knowledge gained from books alone. The SYFC community was what inspired me throughout my time there - and I found that I would sooner spend my Saturdays at the SYFC than anywhere else, even if I wasn’t flying.

Time would fly by and I would go on to complete my first solo on 19th July 2007, and earn my Private Pilot’s License (PPL) on 7th March 2008 with a total of 60.5 flight hours.

Beyond SYFCMy time at SYFC was so fulfilling that in the months after the completion of my PPL, I would often go back to mentor the junior courses in an attempt to continue to give back to the community. However, I knew that I wanted more and decided to join the Republic of Singapore Air Force. With my strong academic performance in the A Levels as well as leading my netball team as Vice-Captain to two championship winning performances, I also applied for and was awarded the SAF Merit Scholarship (Combat). This allowed me to pursue further education at Stanford University where I completed a Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering and a Masters in Aeronautics and Astronautics.

Upon returning to Singapore, I joined 165 Basic Wings Course and was eager to restart my flying journey. While I had some trepidation since I had not flown in a long time, I felt that the SYFC had provided me with a strong foundation to start my training in 130 SQN in Australia. However, I knew that if I was to succeed as a military pilot, I needed to continue to work hard as there was much that I still had to learn. This mindset definitely put me in good stead to succeed in my training and I was eventually selected to fly fighters. I was also presented a rare opportunity to do my Advanced Jet Training under the Italian Air Force and look forward to coming back to Singapore to fly our own fighter aircraft!

CPT Michelle Teo

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SYFC PPL Graduates...NEW RSAF PILOTSAND SCHOLARS

An ancient Chinese philosopher once said, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”. For me, my short aviation journey so far began with a single step – a step into the SYFC compound.

I have wanted to be a pilot since I was about 12. The wonder of how huge gleaming metal machines could take to the skies captivated me and I knew I had to experience controlling one of those craft myself. I learned about SYFC through a friend when I was about 14 and knew that was my ticket into an aircraft. As soon as I turned 16, I applied to be considered for the Basic Flying Course. After the medical check and interview, I was excited to learn that I was accepted!

As I stepped into the SYFC compound and embarked on the 178th Basic Flying Course with my coursemates, I was brimming with anticipation for what was to come, but yet fearful about how I would perform in the course… Would I be good enough to graduate with the coveted Private Pilot License (PPL). On hindsight, the most valuable things that I took away from SYFC was not that PPL, but the journey of self-discovery and development, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and most importantly, friendships and connections.

Through the course at SYFC, I learnt a great deal about myself, and found my character developing throughout the process. The first trait that developed was discipline. The learning curve during the first few weeks of BFC is very steep. There were checks and drills to be memorised, procedures and exercises to be familiar with, systems and theory to learn and understand. All these had to be internalised on top of my existing schoolwork. Very soon, I developed the discipline to manage my time and reduce time wastage. A word of advice though: Do include time to play and unwind! Another trait that I developed was information processing and decision making. While we did not fly as fast as jet aircraft, things still happen pretty quickly in flight. There are a thousand different things competing for your attention and knowing how to prioritise and act on them is the key to success in the air. I also learnt that having a good plan helps immensely with processing changes. Understanding your plan well enough to know how to adapt it will allow you to react to situations that you did not expect. These traits and lessons served me well and provided a good foundation in my future training with the Air Force.

Being part of SYFC also allowed me to have many once-in-a-lifetime experiences. There often were exposure trips to different parts of the Air Force. Two such trips stood out for me. First was a trip to the USS George Washington aircraft carrier when it was docked in Singapore for a routine stopover. It was breathtaking to see so many aircraft parked on the deck of the aircraft carrier and the fact that they were aircraft that were not usually seen in Singapore further added to the experience. I don’t remember much else of the tour but the experience of taking a picture between the tailpipes of an F18 really stood out in my 17-year-old mind. The second experience was a trip to RAAF Base Pearce in Perth, Australia to visit RSAF’s 130 SQN. While I did return later as a pilot trainee with the RSAF, being there as a student and riding stress-free on the PC-21 was another unforgettable experience. These experiences further cemented my desire to be a fighter pilot and helped me to learn more about the RSAF and its partner airforces.

The last major take-away from my time at SYFC was the friendships and connections formed with my coursemates, seniors and juniors. The aviation community in Singapore is a small one and flying is such a unique experience that it brings together people in ways that few other activities can. Through my course, I formed many friendships through studying together, sharing our lessons from flying so that we can learn from one another, and just hanging out in the club together talking about planes and flying. Many of these friends have also signed on with the RSAF and I still see them around from time to time.

The famous renaissance inventor Leonardo da Vinci once said, “Once you have tasted flight you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there you have been and there you will long to return.” My journey into the world of aviation has only just begun, but in it I have found a place to call home – the endless freedom of the sky. I hope that you are inspired to join in the company of fellow aviators, but till then, I wish you tailwinds and blue skies ahead!

LTA Jonathan Seet LTA Jonathan Seet was a student of the 178th Basic Flying Course and graduated from SYFC in 2011. He is an RSAF pilot and is currently studying Mechanical Engineering at the National University of Singapore under the SAF Merit Scholarship. He is expected to graduate in 2020 and return to training with the RSAF.

Me (4th from left) with fellow pilots at the scholarship ceremony. 1st from the left is LTA Jordan Millar who is also an SYFC alumnus.

Receiving my scholarship from Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen

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Dr Maliki, Senior Minister of State for Defence, SYFC GM COL(NS) Calvin Foo and alumni

Mr Ong Ye Kung, Education Minister (Higher Education and Skills) and Second Minister in the Ministry of Defence, COL (NS) Foo and alumni.

LG Perry Lim, Chief Defence Force, COL(NS) Foo and RSAF personnel

Mr Ng Chee Meng, Minister for Education (Schools) and Second Minister for Transport, COL(NS) Foo and alumni

SINGAPORE AIRSHOW 2018As a major player in the aviation sector, SYFC participated in Singapore Air Show 2018 - Asia’s largest aviation event, held at Changi Exhibition Centre from 6th to 11th Feb 2018.

SYFC had a stand-alone booth at the Republic Of Singapore Air Force pavilion where we featured both CCA and Recruitment activities.

The event was successfully held as we saw an overwhelming number of students, parents and members of the general public visited our booth. Besides enquiries made on interest with SYFC CCA and the Basic Flying Course, the attraction in our booth was none other than the flight simulators!

For our staff, alumni and students who assisted in manning the booth, they also took the opportunity and “time-off” from the booth to tour around the Air Show. Besides the F-35 which was displayed in Singapore for the first time, the show stealer was the aerial display.

Overall, SYFC’s participation in the event was a success and we look forward to being in the event again in 2020!

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Mr Ng Chee Meng trying out a simulator with COL(NS) Fooand alumni looking on.Future pilots

My prized SYFC souvenir

COL(NS) Foo with Star Wars characters

Mr Ng Chee Meng having a discussion with COL(NS) Foo

Primary objective of the event was to create awareness among female students and to enable them in making sound decision in considering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and aerospace as career option – be it flying as pilots, researching and developing the next generation spacecraft as aerospace engineers, or even serving the industry in a service oriented professional.Together, SYFC, GIT and LM delivered information on areas within the aviation industry where females may find opportunities.

Guest speakers GIT and LM each delivered speech that had not only inspired the students audience, but had also given deep insight into what the sector has to offer.

At the end of the speeches, a symposium forum was also held, during which the panel of speakers and students engaged in a very interactive session sharing and discussing on the subject field.Finale of the session was when all guests and participants mingled over a lunch reception.

On 3 Feb 2018, SYFC partnered Girls In Tech Singapore (GIT) and Lockheed Martin (LM) in hosting a group of young female students to a reach out event at SYFC. This event was held in conjunction with the Singapore Air Show 2018. GIT is a global non-profit organisation focusing on the engagement, education and empowerment of girls and women passionate about technology, whereas LM is the globally renowned aerospace company.

Scouts from the Singapore Scout

Association visit to SYFC on 3 Mar 18

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GIRLS IN TECH 3 Feb 2018

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Abheshekh ManivannanFlying overseas in a private aircraft is something very few in the world can experience. I was lucky to experience it thanks to the navigation trip organised by SYFC. It was a wonderful learning journey as well as my instructor briefed us on the route, altitude restrictions and also the taxying over at Subang airport. All this was new to us we usually only fly in the training area and circuit pattern.

At Subang, all of us went to a food street to have dinner where we engaged in conversations and bonded with our instructors. The students were left free and easy and the six of us enjoyed ourselves very much by having loads of fun and laughter.

I was sitting in the front for the return leg to Seletar expecting a usual flight. Never did I think that all three aircrafts would line up the runway at the same time and fly the whole flight in a formation. Adding on to the surprise, the instructor, Tan SK passed me the controls while we were sitting on the runway. It was my first time taking off from the right side of the runway. All three aircrafts eventually formed up and provided the Malaysian cities with a complimentary aerial display. Throughout the entire flight, my instructor shared many tips on formation flying. It was truly an unforgettable flight. I was very lucky to fly a formation at just seventeen years old and experience something that most of my other PPL friends couldn't.

Ong Shi Jie GordonBeing able to fly our own planes to another country was a very rare opportunity especially when our instructor hand over controls to us! I managed to experience flying formation on our trip back after departing from Subang for Seletar Airport and I can say it was one of the best experiences I ever had. I learnt many new things from this navigation trip such as making international radio calls etc. I am really thankful for SYFC and all of these opportunities and I definitely do not regret applying for this course.

Navigation Trip toSubang, KL

30 Nov - 1 Dec 2017

Lim Jing LongThe navigation trip has allowed us to widen our horizons, as it was very different from our typical training sorties in Singapore. Not only did we get to experience navigation planning, we also got to see our very own aircraft flying in formation! This was a very fruitful journey to say the least.

Ng Jun Jie KeithI am truly grateful for this opportunity to be part of SYFC navigation trip to Subang. Navigating through way points, diligently doing our in-flight checks and constantly looking around for landmarks put our training back home into practical use. Being able to bond together with my course mates and learn from each other has been the biggest takeaway from this whole trip. Nevertheless, without the Instructors careful planning and constantly planning ahead of time, this trip wouldn't have sailed so smoothly.

Chng Meng Howe RyanGoing for this navigation trip ias undoubtedly one of the best things SYFC has to offer. To see our instructors take charge and prepare the necessary documents and procedure for civilian aviation is a refreshing change from the normalcy of flying in Seletar most of the time. On the outbound flight, we faced strong headwind and weather but still managed to make it through in time. The inbound flight however was the real deal. Since we were allowed to take off one after the other in ten seconds intervals, we managed to fly formation for a solid one and a half hours. I honestly did not think I would have had the opportunity to fly formation but we did and there was no other way to describe the feeling other than just being utterly cool. Of course the trip would not have been as great if it were not for my navigation trip buddies. All in all, this trip has been a blast and maybe in the future we will bring our instructors back to Subang, this time as the pilot in charge.

Bhavesh MahtaniFrom this navigation trip to Subang, I think the six of us can agree that we have learnt a lot! From how to use the autopilot, to following flight plans and even the RTs used! We even did some formation flying which was eye opening to experience! We were also able to immerse in the different culture and mainly the food in Malaysia which was splendid! Overall, this was a really fun and enjoyable trip and I would like to thank SYFC for this amazing opportunity!

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The 2018 CCA activities kicked off in January.2018 touts to be a promising, busy, fun and high action packed year! In 2018, SYFC prepared a year long of exciting activities! On top of the Interschool aeromodelling championship and various RSAF flight experience programmes, SYFC will be introducing multiple new, fun and thrilling courses! Yes, if one of your guesses is drone, you’re only half right! We will be kicking off the drone courses this year! So stay calm (excited), and look forward to our upcoming announcement on the launch of the new courses soon!

In July 2018, a group of students will be representing SYFC at the FAI F2 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP FOR CONTROL LINE MODEL AIRCRAFT in France, organised biennially by the World Air Sports Federation. This year, SYFC will be sending a contingent to participate in two events. The first even is F2C Racing. A F2C Racing consist of a pilot and mechanic. The objective is to complete 100 laps in the fastest possible time with a minimum of two refill pit stop. In 2016, SYFC were crowned the F2C Racing Junior World Champion. Will we be able to defend the title this year? Come on boys!! The second event is F2A Speed, the objective is to complete nine laps in the shortest possible time clocking a distance of one km. The F2A model can clock between 260-300 km/h. Good luck BOYS!!

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CCAEvergreen Secondary School start of 2018 CCA Training

Evergreen Secondary School completed the First Basic Quad Course in SYFC

Our F2A boys training hard on flying F2A boys with their Speed Trainers

F2C Junior Team Training hard on pitstop F2A boys starting the engine