The idea behind all University Air Squadrons is to allow potential RAF officers to experience life in service and to allow them to decide whether they are suited to it.

NUAS began life in 1941 as Durham University Air Squadron, operating Tiger Moths from RAF Woolsington (now Newcastle International Airport).

Students follow a modified form of the Elementary Flying Syllabus covering the basics of flight up to solo navigation exercises.

NUAS holds an annual Ski Trip, most recently to France and then Andorra, as well as one or two other major expeditions.

These expeditions have involved travelling to places such as Iceland for Mountain Biking and Corsica, where students hiked part of the G20.

Force Development (FD) includes visits to places of historical or educational value, such as museums and cities both in the UK and abroad.

NUAS takes part in many inter-UAS and inter-service competitions, and occasionally provides an RAF presence at major sporting fixtures.

A student appointed as the Town Night Exec arranges a timetable of activities throughout the academic year, covering a range of subjects from Air Power to Leadership Qualities.

After completing the joining process a successful student would be attested and become a member of the Volunteer Reserve in the rank of Officer Cadet.

Successful applicants will be expected to be an example on their squadron and must join the RAF on completion of their degrees, or return all bursary monies.