About this episode
Captain Nick talks to Captain John Hutchinson. John was a pilot for the RAF and later in his commercial career flew such iconic aircraft as the 707, 747, VC-10 and of course the beautiful Concorde. We learn about growing up in India, learning to fly and instructing in the RAF. He talks about his time with Vampires, Shackletons his time in RAF Syerston and indeed other RAF bases around the country. In his commercial career John talks about his time learning to be a navigator. There's an amazing recount of BOAC Flight 712 an accident that occurred in Heathrow in 1968. He goes on to talk about flying the 747 and the VC-10 and what becoming a captain was like in his time in the airlines. The culmination of John's illustrious flying career was flying as a captain in the world famous Concorde. John tells stories about Concorde operations, opportunities that his position afforded him and various situations that you may not have known about that involve the incredible aircraft. Captains John and Nick have a frank discussion about Air France Flight 4590. They talk about how the crash affected the Concorde programme and the implications of the crash on the aviation world. John shares his views on the tragic accident which haven't always been popular with media in the past. There's also some commentary on the last days of the Concorde's flying life and how the aircraft has many wonderful tributes and museums that the public can now go to visit. What a wonderful career John has had and we thank him immensely for his time. Thanks to Captain Nick and of course Nev for making this a very special interview and a must watch for any aviation enthusiast! John Hutchinson has a wonderful book that details much of his life and career. Search: 'The Wind Beneath My Wings: John Hutchinson Concorde Pilots' ISBN-10: 1909869708 Thistle Publishing