Riley Flies Solo Before Getting His Ps

Riley McAlister and Michelle Bravford

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Proserpine State High School Year 11 student Riley McAlister has flown a plane before driving a car on his own, completing his first solo flight in Townsville during the school holidays.

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“When they left me by myself in the plane for the first time, I did feel a little bit nervous, but I felt more free,” Riley said.

“When I first took off, it was, wow, I’m flying a plane by myself.  

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“Before I’ve even got my Ps.”

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The 16-year-old secured one of just eight places in a flying course through the Australian Air Force Cadets after applying for a second time late last year. The course combines aviation theory with practical flight training, preparing cadets to fly solo under the guidance of experienced instructors.  

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What began as an opportunity to try something new has grown into a passion for aviation, with Riley now hoping to become an Air Force pilot.

“I used to not have too much of an interest in aviation, but after this experience and once I got in, my knowledge and just willingness to learn more about it increased massively,” Riley said.

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Riley’s prep began in late July or early August, taking weekend trips to Mackay to train alongside an instructor.  

During the September school holidays, he travelled to Townsville for an intensive week of flying and independent study, working towards his first solo flight on the Friday.

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With around 17½ hours of flying experience recorded in total, Riley said the training helped him feel ready to take the controls alone.

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“By then, it was all in my head, and I knew what to do,” he said.

FLTLT (AAFC) Michelle Brayford, commanding officer of 110 Squadron and a senior teacher at Proserpine State High School, said she was “incredibly proud” of Riley’s first solo flight.

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Brayford, who teaches maths, agriculture and digital technologies, said Riley competed against about 600 cadets for the scholarship and completed his flight training in his own time while keeping up with school.

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“To do that, as well as juggle school and other external commitments that he has, it’s just such a credit to Riley and the committed person that he always is,” she said.

Riley joined the squadron at 12, just as he started high school. He, 4 years on, now helps Brayford run Friday night cadet sessions alongside another senior cadet.

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“One thing that I pride 110 Squadron on with regards to the Air Force cadets is their leadership ability,” she said.  

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“Riley’s done that impeccably.”  

Riley is saving to build up his flying hours locally and earn his pilot’s licence, with his years in cadets drawing him to the teamwork and shared sense of purpose he sees in the Air Force.

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“I’m wanting to become a pilot in the Air Force, so hopefully that works out,” Riley said.

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