New LAA Inspector - Neil Oakman

We are pleased to welcome Neil Oakman as a new LAA Inspector, having attended an LAA Inspector Assessment Day at Turweston recently.

Neil’s interest in aviation began during his early years living near the former RAF Sawbridgeworth airfield. Each summer, he would cycle to the edge of the old perimeter track to watch Piper Pawnee crop-spraying aircraft take off and land, sparking a lifelong enthusiasm for flight.

After leaving school, Neil studied engineering and began working at local airfields, gaining hands-on experience with a variety of vintage aircraft ranging from Piper Cubs to the Sea Hurricane. This provided a strong foundation in both traditional aircraft construction and maintenance practices.

He later pursued a career as a commercial pilot. Further details of his flying background can be found on his coaching profile on the LAA website.

Throughout his aviation career, Neil has maintained his own aircraft as well as those of colleagues. This has given him a broad practical knowledge of types such as the De Havilland Chipmunk and the Scottish Aviation Bulldog, along with experience in maintaining aircraft constructed from metal, wood, and fabric. While his exposure to carbon and composite structures is limited at present, he is keen to expand his skills in this area as it represents a growing sector within the sport aviation community.

As an LAA Inspector, Neil is committed to supporting aircraft owners by providing practical advice and guidance to help ensure their aircraft are operated and maintained to the high standards of safety, airworthiness, and reliability required by the LAA.