NOVICE Chinook helicopter pilots have returned to RAF Odiham after a month in Morocco preparing for flying conditions in Afghanistan.

Around 220 personnel, from both RAF Odiham and RAF Benson in Oxfordshire, travelled to Marrakech in Morocco for Exercise Jebel Sahara.

The training mission allowed 10 crews to get used to the “hot and high” conditions they can expect to face when flying in Afghanistan.

It also provided a training ground for qualified pilots in A flight, 18(B) Squadron, and A flight, 27 Squadron.

Wing Commander Reg Barker, Commander Joint Helicopter Force Morocco, said the mission went well.

He said: “Operating from a tented site, our headquarters, aircraft engineering and all elements of ground support have been tested.

“It has been a fantastic experience and has provided vital training to keep us on top of our game ready for modern day operations.”

The exercise effectively marks the end of training for young Chinook pilots before they go to war zones.

Flight Lieutenant Giles Edwards, instructor with the Chinook Operational Flight, said: “It is important that rather than using simulators to replicate the hot, high and dusty environment, that students are able to experience it for real with the added benefit of real troop movements.”

Three crewmen and three pilots from RAF Odiham will head out to Afghani-stan two weeks after their graduation ceremony, which should take place by the end of next week.