By late 1941, damage and refits had reduced Britain's available carrier force while Indomitable was still conducting trials. Some pilots arrived with deck-landing practice and operational experience, while others made their first carrier landings on the new ship. The portrait of Dickie Cork shows how Battle of Britain combat experience and confident deck discipline could give a developing squadron a professional core. The mix of veterans and novices also demonstrates how carrier readiness depended on social cohesion and instructor credibility as well as available aircraft.
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880 Squadron works up aboard HMS Indomitable
A wartime account follows an overstretched carrier fleet and the mixture of experienced and new pilots forming 880 Squadron aboard Indomitable.