In this interview, Geoff shows how a childhood fascination with flying and making model aeroplanes evolved into a lifelong career at the forefront of aviation innovation. Beginning at Rolls-Royce in Derby in 1968, Geoff spent four decades working through a period of rapid technological change in aero-engine design, which continually demanded creativity and problem-solving.

Geoff discusses his contributions to several major civil aero-engine programmes, leading project design teams on the RB211-535E4 powering the Boeing 757, the V2500 for the Airbus A320 family, the Trent 500 for the Airbus A340-500/600, the Trent 900 for the Airbus A380, and the original Trent 1000 for the Boeing 787.

Kirk also reflects on how electronics transformed engine design and capability, and on the growing challenge of balancing fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and commercial viability under increasing environmental pressure. He considers the future of both long- and short-haul aviation, including the role of sustainable aviation fuels.

Looking back on his career, Geoff Kirk explains that engineering future products always involved anticipating the next step in technology. “I think about the future,” he jokes, “but the future is never entirely clear.” His advice to new engineers is not to try to predict everything: focus on building skills, stay adaptable, and concentrate on the next step rather than mapping out an entire career in advance.

Professor Geoffrey Kirk CEng FREng FRAeS was interviewed by Sir George Cox CRAeS for the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth'. The recording was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

A transcript of the interview recording is available on the National Aerospace Library catalogue: https://raes.soutron.net/Portal/Default/en-GB/RecordView/Index/4193329

Determined from an early age to become a pilot, he joined the Air Training Corps as a schoolboy, learned to glide, flew light aircraft independently, and earned a scholarship to RAF Cranwell, graduating in 1964 as best pilot in his entry and winner of the aerobatics prize.

He trained on the English Electric Lightning before serving on No. 5 Squadron at RAF Binbrook and later becoming an instructor at RAF Coltishall. An exchange posting with the US Air Force in Arizona during the Vietnam era led to his conversion to the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II, which he describes as “the airplane of my life” because of its versatility and capability. Returning to the UK as a Squadron Leader, he commanded Phantom training at RAF Coningsby Operational Conversion Unit.

Increasingly aware that advancement required more than operational flying alone, he developed a career strategy that combined flying, instruction, and senior staff appointments. After Staff College, he progressed through a series of demanding but rewarding Cold War appointments including Station Commander at RAF Wildenrath, Director of Air Force Plans and Programmes, Assistant Chief of Defence Staff (Operational Requirements), and Air Officer Commanding No. 11 Group, responsible for UK air defence - “the best part of my career.” Despite his senior rank, he continued extensive operational flying, believing it was an essential part of leadership, and gained a combat rating on the Tornado.

He later became Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Strike Command, Commander-in-Chief of Logistics Command, and finally Commander-in-Chief of Strike Command in 1997 before retirement in 1999 - fulfilling the ambition of the boy who had once dreamed of flying aeroplanes.

While commanding No. 11 Group, he took the opportunity to fly with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight pursuing a lifelong passion for vintage aircraft. Alongside his RAF career, he developed a distinguished display flying career, including flying for the Shuttleworth Collection and The Fighter Collection at Duxford.

Throughout his interview, Sir John gives a vivid picture of flying many of the 116 aircraft in his logbook including the Lightning, Gnat, Hunter, Hawk, Phantom, Tornado, and range of vintage types including the Lancaster. He also retells the story of a particularly difficult Lightning landing at Le Bourget following what he candidly calls a “self-done” mistake.

Summing up his career, Sir John reflects on flying as both a profession and an art form. He speaks openly about carrying “a sliver of fear” into the cockpit, the importance of discipline and skill, and his belief that digitisation has diminished the artistry of modern flying. He describes aviation as “a great leveller,” where only ability matters, and advises aspiring pilots to pursue flying only for the genuine love of it.

ACM Sir John Allison KCB CBE was interviewed by Sir George Cox CRAeS as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth' to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals. The recording was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

A transcript of the interview recording is available on the National Aerospace Library catalogue: ACM Sir John Allison oral history interview | National Aerospace Library

Photo: Sir John Allison aged 23, first tour Lightning pilot on No 5 Squadron, RAF Binbrook

As a dedicated collector of balloon and airship related books and memorabilia, he has a remarkable collection of LP covers and 14 to 15 bookcases devoted to balloons and airships. He serves as an archivist for the British Balloon Museum and Library and the British Balloon and Airship Club, and is frequently consulted on obscure ballooning topics. His enthusiasm has also taken him around the world as part of balloon ground crews and promotional teams for BOAC and later British Airways. 

Alongside this, John spent decades supporting air traffic control at the Farnborough Airshow (1986–2012). John describes memorable moments - from precision jet displays by French Air Force Alpha Jets to the sheer force of an Antonov’s jet blast sending tables, chairs, and a marquee tumbling across the runway.

John also recalls experiences with airships and coordinating balloon operations during the Farnborough Air Show. On one occasion, he flew in a small two-man airship from White Waltham to assist the police with traffic surveillance. On another occasion, he coordinated the early arrival of several balloons before the airfield officially opened which he recalls as his “good deed for the day”. 

Reflecting on his long career in air traffic control, he highlights the importance of passion in air traffic control and fondly remembers the camaraderie of colleagues. “It was a joy to go to work every day,” he says, “because you never knew what was going to happen - and you were with friends.”

John Baker was interviewed by Dr Kit Mitchell FRAeS as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals. The recording was edited by edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

A transcript of the interview recording is available on the National Aerospace Library catalogue: https://raes.soutron.net/Portal/Default/en-GB/RecordView/Index/4193180

Photo: John Baker flying his radio controlled model inside the Eisteddford Building at Llangollen.

Leaving school with four ‘O’ Levels, the minimum entry requirement at the time, John joined London Air Traffic Control Centre (LATCC) at West Drayton near Heathrow as an Air Traffic Control Assistant (ATCA) at just 17¾ years old, gaining valuable operational experience.

Shift work began on a repeating four-day cycle and when the shift system became even more complicated in 1973, John recalls his mother-in-law keeping a wall chart to track family members’ shifts to determine who would be home for meals.

His four years’ practical experience, together with gaining a Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL), was accepted as equivalent to A-level qualifications and enabled John to meet the entry requirements to train as an Air Traffic Control Officer (ATCO). He began the three-year ATCO training programme in 1974.

The three-year training course was intensive and wide-ranging, starting with visits to operational airfields at Guernsey and Bournemouth (Hurn) airports so trainees could speak directly with working pilots rather than rely solely on simulators. Tower training involved learning runway operations and local procedures. Specialist training in area, radar and approach control took place at other centres, including the LATCC, RAF Watton, and Prestwick Airport. At Prestwick, he recalls handling a Concorde, a Boeing 707, and a Piper Cherokee in the circuit at the same time.

After qualifying, John avoided a posting to Sumburgh in the Shetland Islands by claiming to have a fiancée, and he remained at West Drayton for most of his career. When the centre closed, operations moved to Swanwick near Southampton, where he continued until retiring in 2010.

John provides detailed insight into the realities of ATC work such as managing flight progress strips, using precise ATC shorthand and IATC codes to avoid misunderstandings, and maintaining strict communication discipline. He recalls incidents that illustrate the responsibility of the role, including questioning a pilot after fuel vapour was seen trailing from an aircraft and following an instinct to check on another pilot - an intervention he describes as his ‘good deed of the day’.

He emphasises the importance of teamwork in sharing responsibility and contrasts ATC’s intense but contained shift work, where you can leave the job behind at the end of a shift with the ongoing pressures of modern office work where it can be difficult to avoid emails.

Over his career, John witnessed major technological change as paper-based processes gradually gave way to electronic systems. Early on, a “Minicap” computer printed paper flight strips, but it was still switched off weekly so controllers could maintain their skills in writing strips by hand. It was later replaced by the more advanced IBM 9020 system. He also describes the introduction of transponders, which greatly improved flight planning and tracking.

Although he enjoyed earning his PPL, John realised he preferred the slower pace of ballooning to piloting powered aircraft. Part 2 of John’s interview will talk about his involvement with the British Balloon and Airship Club and the British Balloon Museum and Library. He also tells stories about his time working in ATC for the Farnborough Air Show.

John Baker was interviewed by Dr Kit Mitchell FRAeS as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals. The recording was edited by edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

A transcript of the interview recording is available on the National Aerospace Library catalogue: John Baker oral history interview | National Aerospace Library

Roger Cansdale CEng FRAeS was interviewed by Dr Kit Mitchell FRAeS as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project  ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals. The recording was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

A transcript of the interview recording is available on the National Aerospace Library catalogue: Roger Cansdale oral history interview | National Aerospace Library

In 1975, Arthur joined the Engineering Physics (EP) Department as an Assistant Scientific Officer, doing experimental research into helicopter transmissions. When the department closed in the early 1980s, he moved , now a Scientific Officer, to the Flight Systems Department, completing EP projects before working on aircraft hydraulic systems. This involved real aircraft which had to be cleared for flight, but ended after a Hunter aircraft suffered an engine failure on take-off. Both pilots ejected safely, but the project was transferred to RAE Bedford  leaving Arthur once again in search of a new post.

He described himself as being ‘hawked around’ the Weapons Department before settling in Attack Weapons, where he worked on anti-tank systems and again flight clearance on real aircraft. His practical approach earned promotion to Principal Scientific Officer and involvement in international missile programmes. Though he credited luck, his skills were clearly valued. Arthur saw the RAE as more a family than a workplace, and joining the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) put him on the path to Chartered Engineer despite the lack of a degree.

The CEng grew in importance as Farnborough became DRA, DERA, and finally QinetiQ, a period Arthur called a ‘Wild West’ of unclear strategy and scarce funds. After a disruptive split of staff between QinetiQ and DSTL, he chose QinetiQ, but the ensuing chaos left him feeling ‘crushed.’ He eventually moved to Aldermaston, where his weapons and aircraft clearance experience was valued.

He then spent five satisfying years in work he found genuinely useful, a period of redemption that let him retire without the frustration of leaving Farnborough.

Arthur’s interests included long-term involvement with the Air Cadets and research into Operation Chastise. What began as a paper supporting his RAeS application and pursuit of Chartered Engineer status eventually led to him serving as a technical advisor for a TV programme on the Dambusters.

Reflecting on his career, Arthur felt a university degree at 18 wouldn’t have suited him. The informal apprenticeship at the RAE, guided by colleagues who recognized his potential, worked far better for his development.

When asked about the biggest change he witnessed over his career, Arthur highlighted the shift in organisational culture. At the RAE, trials could fail without fuss, provided no one was harmed; by QinetiQ, the same incident would prompt a full inquiry. The RAE’s “suck-it-and-see” approach fostered risk-taking, allowing Technical Demonstrator Programmes to succeed through building and tinkering, often before fully understanding the systems.

Arthur has written an account of the various phases of his career but has still to finish the “messy” bit.  He also enjoys writing aeronautical histories. His paper on the role of the RAE and the V1 was published in the RAeS’s Journal of Aeronautical History.

Arthur Kearse CEng FRAeS was interviewed by Roger Cansdale FRAeS as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals. The recording was edited by edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

A transcript of the interview recording is available on the National Aerospace Library catalogue: Arthur Kearse oral history interview | National Aerospace Library

As a pilot, John has flown an exceptional range of historic types, including the Lysander, Blenheim, B-17, B-25, Corsair, Me 109, Hurricane and numerous Spitfires.

Romain's renowned skills at display filming have taken him into major film productions, notably serving as Tom Cruise’s stunt pilot in Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning and contributing to Dunkirk.

John’s life story reflects one of modest beginnings, great endeavour and a dedication to preserving aviation heritage.

John Romain MBE was interviewed by Keith Cameron in 2025 as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals. The recording was edited by edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

A transcript of the interview recording is available on the National Aerospace Library catalogue: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-5eha4-19f1da8

The photograph of John Romain shows him sat in the Spitfire XI that he restored and first flew again in 2018. The aircraft, nicknamed “Eleven” and “L”, was named in honour of pioneering aviator Lettice Curtis. In 1948, Curtis famously flew the aircraft when she set the British women’s record for the fastest time over a 100-kilometre closed-circuit course, achieving a speed of 313.208 mph.

The National Aerospace Library holds the certificate for Lettice Curtis’s record-breaking flight, along with a rich collection of papers and photographs documenting her life and work. These include material relating to her service with the Air Transport Auxiliary, her logbooks, and her post-war aviation career.

You can find out more here: https://www.aerosociety.com/news/eleanor-lettice-curtis-a-british-aviation-pioneer

Born in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1933, Alan Smith grew up beside the bustling Vickers-Armstrongs shipyard and started out as an apprentice plumber. But the skies were calling: on his 15th birthday in 1948, he joined the Air Cadets. A gliding course at RAF Ouston quickly earned him his A and B certificates, and he took part in cadet flights, including a memorable ride in a Lancaster at RAF Leuchars.

Soon after, he won a flying scholarship, clocked 30 hours on Tiger Moths, and earned his private pilot’s licence by early 1951. As the 100th recipient, he celebrated at the Royal Aero Club in London, where Lord Brabazon of Tara - holder of Aviator’s Certificate No. 1 -  personally presented him with Certificate No. 27,000.

Just weeks later, Alan left plumbing and the Newcastle shipyards behind to join the RAF. After basic training at RAF Cranwell, he began flying at No. 6 Flying Training School, RAF Ternhill, where he flew solo after just 60 hours on the Percival Prentice. Alan Smith recalls meeting Wing Commander Flying Downey at the bar of the officers’ mess whilst celebrating the milestone of his first RAF solo flight.

He was then posted to RAF Middleton St George for advanced training on the Harvard, followed by a jet conversion course at 205 Advanced Flying School on the same Teesside airfield, flying the Gloster Meteor F.4 and T.7. He describes flying to Newcastle, diving over the city and being able to look down to see if his mother was in the back garden.

Alan’s next posting was to 228 Operational Conversion Unit at RAF Leeming for night-flying training, which included an exhilarating nocturnal flight in a de Havilland Mosquito, rendezvousing with a Meteor with no lights. He was then assigned to RAF Wahn near Cologne, West Germany, flying Meteor night fighters for two and a half years with the 2nd Tactical Air Force. He recalls incidents involving fellow pilots and one mission when he ran out of fuel and crash-landed after his hood became stuck.

Back in Britain, his hopes of becoming an RAF instructor at the Central Flying School were dashed when the Commandant disapproved of his lack of sporting experience. Instead, he joined 89 Squadron at RAF Stradishall, flying de Havilland Venom Mk 3 night fighters. When the unit was unexpectedly disbanded, he was pleasantly surprised to be appointed Officer-in-Charge of Stradishall’s Station Flight, overseeing the dispersal of 13 aircraft of five different types. During this period, he also completed an Instrument Flying Rating course on a Vickers Varsity at RAF Debden. However, Alan did not see himself as a Career Officer and left the RAF in April 1959 after seven years’ service.

Driven by his ambition to become an airline pilot, he next moved to London with his young family and studied for an Airline Transport Pilot’s Licence. He had to prove his skills all over again and passed with a twin-engine rating just eight months later. 

Alan Smith talked with Julian Temple, Heritage Archivist for BAE Systems Heritage, on 1 March 2024. The recording was edited for podcast by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS and is published by kind permission of BAE Systems for the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals. Further interviews with Alan Smith will be released in future podcasts.

A transcript of the interview recording is available on the National Aerospace Library catalogue: Alan Smith oral history interview | National Aerospace Library

Philip takes us through how his love of aviation was kindled and encouraged by many of the great aviation historians, such as Charles Gibbs-Smith and the charismatic figures he encountered at early Air-Britain and Cross and Cockade meetings, together with visits to the Aviation Bookshop and the Royal Aeronautical Society’s library.

Philip offers a fascinating insight into the people working behind the scenes to produce aviation magazines and paints a vivid picture of life working at the Royal Aeronautical Society during the 1960s.

Philip also sheds light on the ever-evolving world of magazine production from the 1960s to 1990s, explaining how the process of producing aviation magazines evolved over the period. In addition, he provides an insider’s perspective on the production of aviation books, notably his role in bringing together the six published volumes in the Putnam’s History of Aircraft series. 

Philip concludes by discussing the trials and tribulations of writing history, including the challenges of deciphering the rapid evolution of aeroplanes before the First World War and how to winkle-out amazing material from libraries and archives across the world. He also gives us the low-down on the controversy over who was the first Briton to fly: A.V. Roe or Samuel Cody.

Philip Jarrett HonCRAeS was interviewed by Tony Pilmer FRAeS as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth' to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals'. The recording was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

A transcript of the interview recording is available on the National Aerospace Library catalogue

His career spanned an extraordinary breadth of experience. Recruited to the aerodynamics department at Miles Aircraft during 1942, amongst other projects, he contributed to the Miles Marathon, groundbreaking Miles M.52 project - which, had it not been cancelled, was poised to become the world’s first supersonic aircraft. He went on to address design challenges in a variety of projects with ML Aviation, including an early British UAV, and worked on the stability of the Beagle B.206. Joining the Aircraft Registration Board in the 1970s, he went onto play a pivotal role certifying the Boeing 747 and Concorde in the UK, including working with certification test pilot D. P.  Davies.

Derek shares stories of the people he met during his studies and throughout his career, a journey that vividly reflects the extraordinary advances in aviation over a single lifetime and the enduring ingenuity of designers and engineers in overcoming new challenges.

Derek Ruben was interviewed by Sir George Cox CRAeS as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals. The recording was edited by edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

A transcript of the interview recording is available on the National Library's Catalogue

Philip relished the opportunity to travel the world negotiating contracts and financial packages supporting the sale of aircraft such as the BAC One Eleven whilst working with some of the big names in aviation. During his early years at BAC, he decided to pursue a legal qualification - an ambitious move that ultimately led him to become a member of the company’s Legal Department as an in-house Solicitor. In that role he was involved in major contract negotiations, acquisitions and mergers including the privatisation of BAe, collaboration with Airbus partners and the amalgamation with GEC Marconi in 2000. In this conversation, Philip shares stories about the people he worked with and the challenges that the company faced.

After retiring from BAE Systems, Philip remained passionate about aviation. He became the secretary of the Farnborough Aerodrome Consultative Committee (formed by TAG, the operator of the airport) and subsequently became Chairman of that Committee.

His enthusiasm for aviation heritage led him to play a role in safeguarding heritage within BAe and ensuring that BAe’s rich heritage was preserved and protected for future generations.

As a founding member and the first Chairman of the Royal Aeronautical Society’s Farnborough Branch, Philip has made lasting contributions to the Society. He has also served as Treasurer and a member of the Society’s Council, and was involved in the re-location of the Society’s library to Farnborough (from its London HQ) and in the establishment of the National Aerospace Library at Farnborough. Philip reflects on the town’s rich contribution to the UK’s aviation heritage and its continued importance in the field.

Philip continues to be to be active in the community, currently supporting RAF Odiham in commemorating its centenary and participating in the aviation section of his local U3A branch.

Philip Riley FRAeS talked with Julian Temple, Heritage Archivist for BAE Systems Heritage, on 30 September 2024. The podcast was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS and is published by kind permission of BAE Systems for the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals.

A transcript of the interview recording is available on the National Library's Catalogue: https://raes.soutron.net/Portal/Default/en-GB/RecordView/Index/4182317

Eur Ing Arthur Webb FRAeS was interviewed by Tony Pilmer FRAeS in 2024 and 2025 as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth' to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals'. The recording was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

Eur Ing Arthur Webb FRAeS was interviewed by Tony Pilmer FRAeS in 2025 as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth' to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals'. The recording was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

Eur Ing Arthur Webb FRAeS was interviewed by Tony Pilmer FRAeS in 2024 as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth' to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals'. The recording was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

Arthur also describes other carbon fibre projects, such as how they worked to bring carbon fibre into rowing. We also explore his last years at BAC, including his work on Concorde before describing the depressing time that led up to the nationalisation of Britain’s aircraft industry.

Eur Ing Arthur Webb FRAeS was interviewed by Tony Pilmer FRAeS in 2024 as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth' to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals'. The recording was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

In this part of his oral history interview, Arthur explores how he led a team to design the first certified civil aircraft component for an aeroplane, a pair of load carrying rudder panels on a VC10, with no data, no experience and no background. Arthur also retells the amazing story of he, thanks to good contacts and a lot of guile, persuaded Rolls-Royce that they too should use carbon fibre for structural applications.

Eur Ing Arthur Webb FRAeS was interviewed by Tony Pilmer FRAeS in 2024 as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth' to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals'. The recording was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

Between working on the two freighters, he was selected as one of the few that moved from Coventry to Kingston, and tells us about his work keeping Second World War legacy aircraft in the air and his brush with one of the most dominant figures of twentieth century military aviation, Sir Sydney Camm HonFRAeS.

Arthur starts his oral history interview with telling us about watching British aircraft overhead from German occupied Jersey and how, after an encounter with Prof AD Young FRAeS, scraped through Queen Mary’s Aeronautical Engineering degree by the skin of his teeth.

Eur Ing Arthur Webb FRAeS was interviewed by Tony Pilmer FRAeS in 2024 as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth' to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals'. The recording was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

After receiving excellent all-round training as a Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE) apprentice, Graham joined the Ministry of Defence’s Inspection Directorate, where he worked closely with aero engine companies. The role was both interesting and deeply satisfying, but his thirst for hands-on engineering led him to Christchurch, where he took on the role of Eng3 at the Royal Signals and Radar Establishment (SRDE), initially focusing on mobile power systems for the army.

His career progressed with a move to Boscombe Down where he worked at the Aeroplane and Armaments Experimental Establishment (A&AEE). During this period, Graham embarked on a part-time MSc at Southampton University’s Institute of Sound and Vibration. This research involved investigating the sonic booms of Concorde—a fascinating challenge that ultimately led him to pursue a PhD. 

In 1974, he returned to Farnborough, where he became immersed in tackling cockpit noise, a problem that threatened to make communication impossible in low-flying jets. Determined to find solutions, Graham worked on developing advanced helmets and noise-cancellation systems. His role as a Flight Observer in fast jets allowed him to test and refine these innovations firsthand. His expertise and dedication saw him rise to become Head of the Acoustics and Vibration Section within the Man-Machine Integration Department.

Even after formally retiring, Graham’s passion for aviation and engineering remained undiminished. As one of QinetiQ’s Trusted Experts, he continued to lend his knowledge to the field. But it was his involvement with FAST that marked the beginning of a second career. Initially focused on preserving historic buildings, he soon took on the monumental task of saving vast archives of photographs, reports, and records that were at risk of being lost and forgotten. Thanks to Graham and his colleagues, future generations will be able to access and learn from the 100 years of pioneering technical and scientific work of the RAE. 

Dr Graham Rood FRAeS talked with Roger Cansdale FRAeS on 28 January 2025 for the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals. … . The podcast was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

The transcript of the recording can be accessed on the National Aerospace Library's catalogue.

Equally remarkable – arguably even more so – is her role as the founder of the charity Dreamflight. Each year, the organisation raises enough funds to charter an airliner, taking 192 children with serious illnesses or disabilities on a once-in-a-lifetime, nine-day trip to Orlando. Over 6,500 children have now experienced their ‘holiday of a lifetime’. This incredible achievement was rightfully recognized with the awarding of an MBE.

Pat Pearce MBE talked with Sir George Cox CRAeS on 14 February 2025 for the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals. … . The podcast was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

The transcript of the recording can be accessed on the National Aerospace Library's catalogue

After gaining experience with variable sweep aircraft at Vickers Armstrong in Weybridge, he joined the Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE) Flutter and Vibration Division, where he harnessed the ever-increasing power of computers in the 1960s. His analysis of Concorde’s response to turbulence and runway conditions led to undercarriage improvements—enhancements that pilots told him 40 years later had made a significant difference.

Starting In retirement, Kit played a key role in the newly-formed Farnborough Branch of the Royal Aeronautical Society and explains why the Society’s branches are of such importance to the aero community. He chaired the Society’s Historical Group, and set up and edited the Journal of Aeronautical History for a decade. Kit considers the journal a major milestone for the Society. The journal has ensured the publication of historical papers for both technical experts and aviation enthusiasts Kit also contributed to a school “build-a-plane” project through his connections with the Society.

Reflecting on his career in aeronautical engineering and transport research, Kit values his work on Concorde’s success and takes great pride in his research into public transport, particularly developing the dial-a-bus service, which he found most enjoyable. Kit’s work on disability transport can also be heard in the podcast 'Making public transport disability-friendly the RAE way'.

Kit Mitchell FRAeS was interviewed by Katrina Sudell as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth' to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals'. The recording was edited by edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

The transcript of the recording can be accessed on the National Aerospace Library's catalogue

In their fascinating wide-ranging discussion, Roger and Donald swap stories on the closure of the RAE and its apprenticeship programme, successes of private venture aircraft, retiring at 60, dealing with interpreters, Donald’s national service, visiting Vietnam during the Vietnamese War, airships, Concorde, paying bonuses, converting the RAE runway into Farnborough International Airport and predictions on decarbonising aviation.

Sir Donald Spiers HonFRAeS was interviewed by Roger Cansdale as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth' to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals'. The recording was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS & Tony Pilmer FRAeS.

Kit’s story shows how aeronautical engineers’ skills can lead to a very flexible career – something for young people to consider when planning their education and career journey. Kit also gives a fascinating insight into what it was like working for different government research organisations. Kit talking about his aeronautical career can also be heard in the podcast: From Concorde undercarriages at the RAE and designing light aircraft to promoting of aviation history

Kit Mitchell FRAeS was interviewed by Katrina Sudell as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth' to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals'. The recording was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

The transcript of the recording can be accessed on the National Aerospace Library's catalogue

Don regards the development of the Roziere balloon, a combination helium and hot air balloon, as one of his greatest achievements, used in record breaking flights such as the Breitling Orbiter 3 which completed the first-ever circumnavigation of the globe by hot air balloon in 1999. Versions of Cameron Roziere balloons have also flown the first coast to coast flight across Australia and the first solo crossing of the Pacific Ocean. His company has also become world famous for producing an amazing variety of special shaped balloons.

Don also describes his own flights, including finally fulfilling his dream of crossing the Atlantic by balloon in 1992 and making the first balloon flight between the UK and the USSR in 1990 and his many fond memories of the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, an event that he helped found and run since it was established in 1979.

Don, looking back on his career, also explains that you have to put everything into running a business and hard work was needed to grab the opportunities that were brought about by modern hot air ballooning.

Don Cameron was interviewed by Anne Hayward as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project  ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth' to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals'. The recording was edited by edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

The transcript of the recording can be accessed on the National Aerospace Library's catalogue

Though starting life as a BOAC apprentice, Stewart spent his early years on secondment to Kuwait Airways and Malaysia-Singapore Airline and he tells us about life living away from home often as the only engineer certified to maintain the airline’s types.

Back in the UK, Stewart spent most of the 1970s at Heathrow dealing with the challenges posed by the unions, engineers and the fleet of Boeing 747s and 707s. Steward finished his time as a full-time employee in Hong Kong as Cathy Pacific’s Engineering Director, working with Boeing, Rolls-Royce and his engineers selecting and maintaining over 60 wide-bodied aircraft and Dragonair’s fleet of narrow bodied aircraft.

Not ready for the allotment, Stewart returned to the UK to take up consultancies and board positions with many aviation companies including Rolls-Royce and Airbus. Always a Committee man, Steward also discusses his term as President of the Royal Aeronautical Society, the Society of Licensed Aircraft Engineers and the International Federation of Airworthiness.

During the interview, Stewart shares some amusing and fascinating tales of the people he met and the challenges he faced during his varied career.

Stewart John FREng FRAeS talked with Keith Cameron in September 2024 for the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals. … . The podcast was edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS. The transcript of the recording can be accessed on the National Aerospace Library's catalogue: https://raes.soutron.net/Portal/Default/en-GB/RecordView/Index/1116153

• Born 1934 in Wimbledon.

• Left Raynes Park County Grammar School aged 18

• National Service. Army paratrooper for 2 years, mostly in Egypt

• Read Mechanical Sciences at Cambridge

• Graduate Apprenticeship with de Havilland Engines

• In late 1950s moved to the Air Ministry to do Operational Research

• Officer in Scientific Charge of early trials of the Hawker Kestrel

• OR work in the Middle East with the RAF

• Scientific Advisor to the Far East Air Force based in Singapore

• Left OR to enhance career prospects by getting into Project Management as AD Hawk

• Then moved to Jaguar, Tornado, Eurofighter and Typhoon. Chairman of NAMMA

• Retired at 60 as MoD’s Controller of Aircraft

• Post retirement involvement with the future of the Farnborough Airfield

• Held a number of non-executive directorships with companies including European Helicopter Industries and TAG

• President of the Royal Aeronautical Society

• Trustee and Chair of the Farnborough Air Sciences Trust

Sir Donald Spiers HonFRAeS was interviewed by Roger Cansdale FRAeS as part of the Royal Aeronautical Society/National Aerospace Library’s oral history project ‘If I only didn’t do it that way…….” Capturing history from the horse’s mouth to inspire today’s aeronautical professionals. The recording was edited by edited by Eur Ing Mike Stanberry FRAeS.

The transcript of the recording is available on the National Aerospace Library's catalogue: https://raes.soutron.net/Portal/Default/en-GB/RecordView/Index/183614