Armed Forces: Helicopters

Question

Asked by

Lord Astor of Hever
To ask Her Majesty's Government what has been the retention rate for Apache helicopter pilots serving in HM Armed Forces in each year since 2001. [HL2943]

The Minister for International Defence and Security (Baroness Taylor of Bolton)
There is no single, formal measure providing a retention rate for aircrew.

Apache aircrew deployable strength has increased from 46 to 108 since 2007 due to increased operational demand. There has been a fourfold increase in flying hours for Apache helicopter aircrew since 2006.

The Attack helicopter force has been steadily growing since the Apache was introduced into service. The original requirement was to provide 40 crews by 2009 and a long-term plan of growing to 60 crews in 2012.