Powering pilot training: Affinity marks 10 years delivering mission‑ready aircraft

Affinity Flying Services (Affinity), a leading UK aircraft supply and servicing provider, recently celebrated its 10‑year anniversary, marking a decade of consistently delivering high‑quality aircraft services to the Ministry of Defence. Over the past decade, Affinity has supported the progression of hundreds of pilots through the first phase of the UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS), underpinned by a commitment to consistent, reliable delivery.  

Since its creation, Affinity has continually grown its operations and aviation capability, from the small beginnings in Leatherhead, Surrey to a business that spans across the UK with bases at RAF Cranwell, RAF Barkston Heath and RAF Valley. It currently holds an exemplary record in delivering aircraft on-time and up to standard for the elementary section of the UK MFTS, reinforced by it surpassing the 90,000 flying hours training mark in 2025. It continues to press forward towards the 100,000 flying hours training milestone, delivering full Elementary Flying Training (EFT), Basic Flying Training (BFT) and Multi-Engine Pilot Training (MEPT) capability across its Beechcraft Texan, Embraer Phenom and Grob Prefect fleet. 

Affinity began its journey in 2016 with just 7 employees, growing over 10 years to become the 200-person strong company it is today. This milestone and the rapid growth of the business over the past 10 years is a testament to the company’s commitment to creating an environment that prioritises safety, encourages learning and development of its people, and continues to innovate to streamline its operations. 

As the importance of air defence continues to grow and be recognised, Affinity continues to play a vital role by providing safe, reliable and mission-ready aircraft to the pilot training pipeline, enabling the next generation of pilots to advance through their training towards the frontline. Over the course of the 10 years, Affinity has overseen and supported a transformation in pilot training, able to scale up when required the number of deployable training aircraft. In recognition of these efforts and Affinity’s ability to deliver, the company’s engineering workforce has received numerous accolades over the past decade for its delivery excellence and commitment to aircraft availability, reflecting the skill and dedication of its teams operating across all its sites. 

Reflecting on the achievements of the business over the past decade, Managing Director, Iain Chalmers said, “Affinity’s success over the past 10 years has been driven by our people-led approach. As employee number one, I have seen first hand how the business has remained focused on delivering safe, reliable and timely services for our country. Equally, we have always recognised the importance of giving back, supporting our local communities and nurturing young aviation talent through our work with The Air League, the RAF Association, the RAF Air Cadets, the Jon Egging Trust and local universities. 

Our recent partnership with SMS Aero, a provider of specialist aviation engineering training, strengthens the capability and training pathways available across the sector. As we look ahead, we will continue to build on this approach to contribute to the overall strength of the UK aviation industry.” 

Looking ahead to the business’ next chapter, it will continue to focus on flexibility and innovation, while ensuring that safety is central to its operations. With a strong ethos, supported by 200 dedicated personnel, Affinity is well placed for future aviation contracts with both industry and military partners, within the UK and overseas. 

About Affinity FS 

Affinity Flying Training Services is a 50-50 joint venture between Elbit Systems UK and KBR. Since its formation in 2016, Affinity has delivered over 90,000 flying hours across the UK. As a key partner of the UK Military Flying Training System (UK MFTS), the company currently delivers pilot training, procurement, operations and maintenance services, at RAF Cranwell, RAF Barkston Heath and RAF Valley on three different types of aircraft.