Our History

The Air Training Corps is primarily a youth organisation for young people between the ages of 13 to 20 years who have a general interest in aviation and / or aviation associated subjects. Also more imporantly, have a genuine desire to improve their awareness for self-discipline, demonstrate potential leadership qualities and posses a keen spirit of adventure. Indeed many of the UK’s well-respected business personalities and RAF Service peronsnel have spent a proportion of their leisure time as an Air Cadet.

The activities, in which an Air Cadet can participate, include flying, gliding, shooting and sport. Commitment to the organisation is a quality, which can prove invaluable to the individual in his or her adult life.

Our History

424 (City of Southampton) Squadron has a long and proud history. The squadron was formed in 1941 at the University of Southampton. It then moved to hutted accomodation in Havelock Road, opposite the Southampton Civic Centre. Many thousands of cadets have passed through its ranks, some to mourned on a roll of honour and killed in defence of their country and others who have become notable citizens and members of Her Majesty’s Forces in Peacetime.

The Squadron has always been strong and maintained a high standard of efficiency. This was first recognised in 1968 when the sir alan lees trophy was presented 424 for being the most efficient and high achieving squadron in the UK. The Squadron has subsequently won this award five times since.

The Squadron moved to its current location, next to the Hall of Aviation in 1983 and still maintained its standard of efficiency. The Squadron Colour Flight has had a seven-year history displaying drill at prestigious events such as the Royal International Air Tattoo and the Grand Military Tattoo The Squadron won the Commendants Commendation Award in 2003 awarded in recognition of the outstanding drill display at RAF College Cranwell on the occasion of the Dining Out if the Cheif of Air Staff.

The Squadron has maintained highest Wing training index in last 6 years. The Squadron has held the Wing activities trophy for four consecutive years (2000-2004), which includes drill, shooting initiative exercise and assault course. We currently hold the Wing Athletics Trophy (2008 & 2009).  The squadron Nijmegen (Holland) March team won the UK trophy for 2 years in sucession. The team have taken part since 1999.

424 (City of Southampton) Squadron evenings are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7.00PM.