22-year-old glider pilot given key role at Cosford Air Show bursting with pride

A young pilot delivering Cosford Air Show’s aerobatic glider display has spoken of his pride at being given the opportunity.

Air Recruit Bradley Lefley Kemp of No. 1 School of Technical Training at RAF Cosford and RAF Shawbury Gliding Club will be performing the display - with organisers hailing his selection as an achievement that reflects both “exceptional talent and sustained professional commitment”.

Currently undertaking a Level 3 apprenticeship in aircraft maintenance, Air Recruit Lefley Kemp, who is 22 and from Scotton, has combined the demands of technical training with an outstanding progression in gliding.

His development within the RAF Gliding and Soaring Association and RAF Shawbury Gliding Club has enabled him to become a highly accomplished pilot and instructor.

His selection to perform at RAF Cosford Air Show follows a series of notable achievements in the sport.

Beginning as a junior glider pilot, he progressed rapidly through solo flight, cross country qualifications and advanced badges before gaining his basic instructor rating.

Reflecting on his selection, Air Recruit Lefley Kemp said: “It was something I could not quite believe at first. I was asking myself if I was good enough and how I would manage it alongside my training, but I was encouraged to focus on the opportunity and what it could become.”

Display flying is one of the most demanding disciplines in aviation, requiring high levels of precision, discipline and safety awareness.

Air Recruit Lefley Kemp has successfully completed the rigorous training and assessment required to achieve a Civil Aviation Authority recognised display authorisation.

Supported by training and mentorship funded through the RAF Central Fund and Capita, his qualification places him among a select group of aviators authorised to perform in a public display environment.

He is expected to be one of the youngest non-professional aviator pilots within the Royal Air Force to hold such accreditation.

RAF Shawbury Gliding Club chief flying instructor Ian Gallacher said: “It is fantastic that Brad has been selected to fly the glider aerobatics display at the 2026 RAF Cosford Air Show. It is a testament to the hard work he has put into his flying alongside his intensive technical training. He has earned this opportunity by mastering the disciplines required to be a display pilot.”

Gliding continues to play an important role within the Royal Air Force, promoting airmanship, teamwork and technical understanding.

Air Recruit Lefley Kemp added: “Gliding is very much a team sport and open to everyone. I hope that by performing at Cosford I can demonstrate that flying opportunities exist within the Royal Air Force for a wide range of people, not just those in traditional pilot roles.”

RAF Cosford Air Show 2026 takes place on Sunday, June 14.