As a child, my favourite part of watching the National Day Parade is seeing the RSAF aircraft flying by. While most of us would have experienced flying in a commercial aircraft — like the ones that take off from Changi Airport — but, have you ever wondered what it’s like to ride in a Chinook helicopter? Well, this National Day, you just might get the chance to.
Did you know that the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is celebrating its 55th anniversary this year? In light of RSAF55, they will be giving away 2,500 tickets to experience what it’s like to fly in their military aircraft and more. The inner child in me is super excited for this.
Some of the aircraft that you can look forward to taking a flight in include the CH-47SD Chinook helicopter, C130 Aircraft — similar to the ones that the Red Lions jump out of during their military freefall display — the Fokker 50 aircraft, and the Singapore Youth Flying Club’s DA40 trainer aircraft.
The aircraft will be flying around the eastern and southern parts of Singapore so you might be able to spot your home from up in the sky as well as smaller islands south of Singapore.
If you’re all riled up and excited about the flights like I am, here’s what you gotta do. From noon on Thursday, 20 July, until 22 Aug 2023, ballots for flight tickets will be made available through FormSG. The link can be found on RSAF’s social media channels and is open to all Singaporeans and permanent residents. Do note that each person is only allowed to ballot once — remember that sharing is caring, okay?
It is important to note that the date, time, and aircraft type will be randomly allocated by the balloting system which means you might not get your preferred flight. But for what it’s worth, it’s still a unique experience like no other. Besides, how often can you say that you’ve flown in a military aircraft?
You can also take part in RSAF55 social media contests and giveaways, available on RSAF’s instagram and YouTube channel, to increase your chances of scoring a flight ticket. The contests start on Friday and run until 22 August 2023. Results of the ballot, giveaways, and contests will be announced at the end of August — remember to mark the date and keep your fingers crossed!
Due to safety reasons, only those above the age of five and are at least one metre tall are allowed on board. Unfortunately, those with mobility issues, or with any pre-existing heart or lung conditions, and those who are pregnant will not be able to board the familiarisation flights.
If you’re excited to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime flight in one of these aircraft, make sure to check out RSAF’s social media channels for the registration link and other RSAF55 updates. Remember that the ballot ends on 22 August — good luck to everyone.
Which aircraft are you most excited to take flight in?
RSAF55
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