Our Story
In 2026, 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron marks 70 years supporting young people in our community. To celebrate – and to raise funds for future opportunities – we’re taking on a 24-hour flight simulator challenge led by our cadets.
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Why we’re doing this

Introduction

2344 (Longbenton) Squadron RAF Air Cadets has been part of the local community since 1956. We help young people build confidence, leadership, teamwork and practical skills through aviation, STEM and adventurous training.

Miles for Smiles is our way of celebrating our 70th year with something that’s fun, challenging and cadet-led — while raising funds to support training, equipment and opportunities for the next generation.

Quick version: 24 hours of flying, two missions, one squadron — raising funds to support young people.

Support the mission

How it works

Mission 1

F-35B Global Circumnavigation

A cadet team will fly an F-35B eastbound, aiming to complete a full lap of the Earth within the 24-hour window. (This is a simulated endurance challenge – we’re not prioritising real-world fuel realism.)

On stream: live cockpit views, landmark flyovers, progress updates and crew changeovers.

Mission 2

Grob Tutor T1 RAF Airfields + Akrotiri

A second team will fly the Grob Tutor to as many operational RAF airfields as possible across the UK, before continuing on to RAF Akrotiri (Cyprus).

On stream: navigation, route planning and “airfield tick-offs” as we go.

Event format

1) Preparation

Cadets plan routes in advance, test equipment, and practice changeovers.

2) 24-hour launch

We go live, split into shifts, and keep both missions running continuously.

3) Endurance phase

The key challenge is teamwork – staying organised, communicating clearly and handing over safely.

4) Finish + thanks

We close out the routes, publish totals, and thank supporters and sponsors.

Where your support goes

Training

Courses and qualifications that build confidence, leadership and practical skills.

Equipment

Squadron resources that help deliver better aviation, STEM and classroom training.

Opportunities

Activities and events that make cadets feel part of something bigger.

Thank you! Every donation helps us give young people positive opportunities.

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Sponsorship Opportunities

Want to sponsor the event?

We welcome support from local businesses and community partners. If you’d like to sponsor Miles for Smiles, please contact us and we’ll send details of the sponsorship options.

Email: [email protected]