Allan Pappin CVO AM, a Bairnsdale local, is well-known in his current role at the local RSL as Sub-Branch president. What may be unknown to some is he also flew the Royal family for around 27 years, including approximately 30 flights with Queen Elizabeth II.
With the holiday for Queen Elizabeth II coming up tomorrow to pause and reflect following her passing, local MP, Tim Bull, shared some of the humble pilot’s stories in Parliament last Tuesday.
Mr Pappin flew the Royal family between 1954-1981, and the Queen personally vested him as the Commander of the Royal Victorian Order for distinguished service to the Royal family.
Mr Pappin recalled how he often shared the cockpit with the late Prince Phillip, believing he was “keeping the Prince out of mischief”.
“She (the Queen) was a focal point of hope and inspiration during my active service overseas in the 1960s,” Mr Pappin said.
IMAGE: * Allan Pappin CVO AM
