US Air Force Pilots and the RAF’s Aircraft: A Tale of Friendship and Flying

The relationship between the United States Air Force (USAF) and the Royal Air Force (RAF) stretches back to World War II, with American pilots famously flying British aircraft. This exchange has not only been a matter of mutual benefit but also of camaraderie and mutual respect. Over the decades, these pilots have shared their experiences and often cherished the aircraft they've flown.

The Long History of US Pilots Flying RAF Aircraft

American pilots have been flying British aircraft since World War II, even though the USAF didn't come into existence until 1947. A wide range of British aircraft have been utilized by the USAF, including iconic models like the Spitfire, Beaufighter, and Mosquito. The Mosquito, in particular, was used as a night fighter due to the lack of suitable types within the USAF at the time.

Beyond World War II, the tradition of exchange pilots continues into the Cold War era and beyond. Exchange postings are common in NATO and NORAD squadrons, where American pilots regularly serve duties flying Canadian military aircraft, while their Canadian counterparts fly with US squadrons. This exchange has extended to include pilots from other countries such as France, the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, Holland, and Italy. The RAF has also sent pilots to the USA to train, while American pilots have trained with the RAF and the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm.

Favorite RAF Aircraft Among US Pilots

A few RAF aircraft have been notably favored by American pilots across different periods:

The Spitfire

Rather than mention it, it's worth noting that the Spitfire was a favorite among American pilots during World War II. The legacy of this aircraft lives on as a symbol of the war and its superiority in handling and performance. Chuck Yeager, a famous American pilot, had high praise for the B-57 Canberra bomber, a British aircraft that was also adopted by the USAF.

The B-57 Canberra

The B-57 Canberra, a British-developed aircraft manufactured in the US, had a lengthy service history in the military. It served in various roles, including as a research aircraft, and was a valuable addition to the USAF fleet. Yeager's appreciation for this aircraft is often cited as an example of the collaborative efforts between the two nations' airforces.

The Electric Lightning

Other RAF aircraft that have caught the fancy of American pilots include the Electric Lightning with 56 Squadron. This aircraft was especially cherished during stressful escort missions to and from Berlin in 1960-61. Chuck Yeager's friend, who flew this aircraft, noted its superior speed and ability to outrun East German MiG fighters with a dash speed up to Mach 2.3.

The Hawker Hunter

The Hawker Hunter was another favorite among US pilots. Known for its reliability and excellent performance, it served the Royal Air Force with distinction. In contrast, the Jaguar and Tornado were less popular in recent times among American pilots, although specific reasons for this preference are not detailed here. However, it is reasonable to assume that the RAF's Typhoon II fighter and their newer F35s are also much loved by American pilots due to their advanced capabilities and modern design.

In conclusion, the exchange of pilots and the sharing of aviation experiences between the US Air Force and the RAF have strengthened the bonds of friendship and mutual respect between the two nations. The aircraft mentioned here represent just a small fraction of the rich history and shared heritage of flying these iconic machines.