Ops Normal Volume 1

Since formation in 1957 the Army Air Corps has played a prominent role in almost every British Army operation in modern times. Ops Normal is an unrivalled and comprehensive operational history of the Army Air Corps experience. It is a unique insight into the aircraft deployed, and the experiences of the men and women involved.

Volume 1 of Ops Normal is exceptional as it draws generously on the testimony of those who were deployed on the early operations. Aircrew and Groundcrew provided critical aviation support to the full spectrum of flying operations in the most hazardous environments, often under fire. It also captures the pace of change and turbulence as the small embryonic corps of aviators evolved into the fully fledged combat arm of today.

Ops Normal covers operations in Malaya, Borneo, Hong Kong, Cyprus, Kuwait, Aden, British Guiana, Belize and in Northern Ireland. It uses previously unpublished material, thought-provoking first-hand accounts coupled with contemporary unit records, and many unpublished images. The result is a fresh and compelling history of a Corps that though diminutive in numbers, rank as one of the most potent in the British Army’s order of battle.

Ops Normal is the only complete and authorised account of British Army aviation operations undertaken by the Army Air Corps. It is a fitting tribute to all who wore the sky blue beret and especially those that made the ultimate sacrifice. It is also a testimony to those that survive with the physical and mental scars of their service.

"With almost 60 years service as aircrew in the Army Air Corps between them, there can be few who have more experience, a deeper understanding of Army flying or are better qualified to write this first authoritative and authorised history of the Army Air Corps than Dr John Greenacres and Mike Peters.....The authors have most skilfully woven a vast number of personal testimonies with official accounts and incident reports, to provide a remarkably comprehensive and perfectly balanced history which is exciting, brutally honest, fast paced, absorbing and impossible to put down. It is most highly recommended reading for anyone with an interest in the post-War Army aviation and operations involving the British Army. I eagerly await Volume 2 which will continue the story of Northern Ireland and cover more recent campaigns." Brig (retd) Clive Elderton CBE, The Military Historical Society

"...This is an excellent book and a good tribute to those who wore the pale blue beret." Army Rumour Service

“By weaving strategic context and personal experience, Peters and Greenacre present a rich, layered depiction of a Corps shaped by Cold War tensions and irregular conflicts. For military historians and enthusiasts, it stands out as a meticulously researched and emotionally compelling work.” The Journal of the Air Force Historical Foundation

"This is a fascinating book that reveals much information on the Army Air Corps and many images that have not been seen by us before. The volume is thoroughly recommended to modellers, historians and enthusiasts alike." IPMS Magazine, No 1, 2026