Tucano Display Team 2008

Team Manager - Flt Lt Andy Griffiths

Flt Lt Andy Griffiths is originally from Liverpool and, after completing a degree in aeronautical engineering, joined the RAF in April 2000. After gaining his wings in 2002, Griff was posted to RAF Lyneham to fly the Hercules C130J with 30 Sqn. Between 2003 and 2006 Griff flew regularly on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and also flew humanitarian aid to Pakistan after the earthquake there in 2005. In July 2006 Griff started conversion to the Tucano and was posted to 72(R) Sqn to begin a tour as a Qualified Flying Instructor.

Public Relations Manager - Flight Lieutenant Mark Holland

Flight Lieutenant Mark Holland, 38, is a Qualified Pilot Navigator Instructor on 76 (R) Squadron, RAF Linton-on-Ouse. Interested in flying from an early age he gained a RAF Flying Scholarship whilst at The John Lyon School in Harrow. He went on to study Electrical Engineering at Southampton University after which he spent almost 2 years working in Toronto, Canada, as a Telecommunications Consultant. He returned to the UK in 1992 to join the RAF as a Navigator. Following Initial Officer Training at RAF College Cranwell, he completed Flying Training on the Bulldog, Tucano, Dominie and Hawk aircraft, gaining his “Navigator Brevet” in 1994.

On completion of Flying Training, Mark spent a short time on 100 Sqn, RAF Finningly flying Hawks, prior to starting the Tornado GR1 OCU at RAF Cottesmore and RAF Lossiemouth. In 1996, he was posted to IX (B) Sqn, RAF Bruggen, where he was involved in Op Southern and Northern Watch, Op Desert Fox, as well as many other major NATO exercises. In 1999 he moved across the wing to 31 Sqn where he flew in Operations over Kosovo. He was selected for a pilot crossover at the end of 1999.

On completion of Flying Training and the attainment of his “Wings” he was posted to 216 Sqn. There he was employed in both the Strategic Air Transport and Air to Air Refuelling Roles, flying the Tristar. During his time on the Tristar he flew on Op Telic, as well as in support of many major exercises and Air to Air Refueling Trails. In 2005, Mark was selected for instructional duties flying the Tucano on 76 (R) Sqn, RAF Linton on Ouse. Mark has now amassed over 4000 military flying hours. Married with 2 young boys he enjoys skiing, mountain-biking and spending time with his family.

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