Our flight path so far
Since 2008, our unwavering commitment to exceptional aircraft maintenance and ongoing aircraft readiness has supported the next generation of pilots.
2008
Affinity's aviation services journey begins as Ascent becomes the Training System Partner for the UK Ministry of Defence's Military Flying Training System.
2013
Affinity submits its final bid featuring three specialised aircraft tailored for different training requirements:
23 Grob 120TP
'Prefect'
for Elementary Flying Training (EFT)
10 Beechcraft T-6C
'Texan'
for Basic Flying Training (BFT)
5 Embraer Phenom 100
'Phenom'
for Multi-Engine Pilot Training (MEPT)
2014
Ascent selects Affinity as the
preferred partner for the Fixed
Wing Training Package Contract to
provide mission-critical aircraft
maintenance through 2033 at
RAF Cranwell,
RAF Barkston Heath, and
RAF Valley.
2016
February marks Affinity's official operational launch with an ambitious commitment to deliver all training aircraft by November 2018. November sees the first Prefect aircraft delivered to RAF Cranwell, while December brings completion of state-of-the-art maintenance facilities at two bases.
2017
Our multi-engine training capabilities advance with the arrival of four Phenom aircraft at RAF Cranwell, while Prefect training begins at RAF Barkston Heath.
2018
Aircraft delivery milestones accelerate with the final Phenom arriving at RAF Cranwell and all ten Texans delivered to RAF Valley for basic flight training.
2019
Full service delivery achieved across all three aircraft fleets, providing comprehensive aviation training solutions at RAF Cranwell, Barkston Heath, and Valley.
2020
Affinity signed a contract with the UK MOD for the purchase of a further four Texan T-6C aircraft.
The UKMFTS contract expansion includes additional support equipment and spares. Based at RAF Valley, the four extra Texans take the total Texan fleet to 14.
2022
Affinity trials the first civil registered electric aircraft in the UK in a joint Pathfinder project with UK MOD.
A combined fleet of 14 Texan T1s are operational at RAF Valley.
2025
Affinity partners with SMS Aero to enhance Aviation Training capability in areas including Safety Management, Human Factors in Maintenance, Regulatory
Compliance, Airworthiness, Event Investigation, and Training Support.
And beyond...
To date, we've supported over 90,000 flying hours with rigorous aircraft maintenance and dedicated teams ensuring our platforms are always mission-ready.
Our proven track record includes:
Strategic partnerships
We collaborate with leading organisations including as The Air League, the Jon Egging Trust, and the Air & Space Institute to share our expertise and help inspire the next generation of aviation talent.
Award-winning safety
standards
Peace of mind comes from our recognised safety excellence, including RAF Station Safety Awards and Royal Air Force Honours List recognition.
Government
engagement
Our partners' future aviation needs shape our leadership team's active discussions with government representatives about advancing defence aviation capabilities.
With dedicated aircraft technicians and engineers ensuring maximum availability across our Military locations, our agile approach to aircraft maintenance ensures nothing stands between your mission and success.
