RAF Shawbury staff work to clear snow
Staff at RAF Shawbury are fighting against the weather to get the helicopters airborne after the airfield, like most of Shropshire, was covered by a blanket of snow this morning.
The airbase kicked into action with snow ploughs and de-icing taking place on the main helicopter operating dispersals. The Station Meteorological Office continues to monitor the weather situation to assist the aircrew in their mission planning. Flights in snowy conditions form excellent training for the helicopter crews, both day and night.
Kevin Rowlands, of the RAF Shawbury Met Office, has been taking the relevant readings during the day. He said "We are doubtful that the weather conditions will improve enough for flying training today with mist, low cloud and light snow across the flying area and temperatures below freezing."
Squadron Leader Ade Vine, the Station Squadron Leader Operations said: "Whenever we have very poor weather including snow we implement a Station Blacktop plan which allows us to safely de-ice the essential operating areas. This does not include the main runways as these are not essential for helicopter flying but we do treat and clear the dispersal areas used for the parking of the helicopters. Hopefully this work will allow us to fly at some point over the next few days to complete our essential training."
