Lifejacket of a Winchman

The flying clothing worn by RAF winchmen equipped them for rescue operations over the sea and in the mountains, where they frequently had to be lowered by cable from a hovering helicopter.

Helicopter winchmen of the RAF's Search and Rescue Force performed an important role between 1986 and 2015, especially in situations where helicopters were unable to land due to unfavourable terrain or when over the sea. Attached to the winch's cable, the winchman could be lowered to the scene of the emergency to provide medical assistance to casualties or to supervise the loading of those requiring rescue or medical evacuation onto the helicopter.