RAF Typhoons face thunderclouds as stormy season hits RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus
The Royal Air Force continues to fly missions despite heavy rain and strong winds in Cyprus.
A pair of Typhoons from No. 6 Squadron and a Voyager refuelling tanker took off on the wet runway at RAF Akrotiri, despite challenging conditions.
Seasonal storms make it harder for pilots flying within the region, plus arriving from the UK.
Air traffic controllers watching from a nearby tower overlooking the runway help pilots and ground crew navigate the difficulties of operating in bad weather.
Sergeant Rob Wilson, Senior Non-Commissioned Air Traffic Controller at RAF Akrotiri, said: "The considerations we have to think about are braking conditions if the runways are too wet or icy. We don't want aircraft to veer off.
"Similarly, we don't want too much wind shear on the final approaches or departure on those critical stages of flight," he added.
RAF Akrotiri is the UK's biggest overseas airbase.
It's the busiest time of year for the Met Office, which has a team of meteorologists permanently stationed at the airbase.
In recent days, wind speeds have passed 40kt, or approximately 50mph, making flying more dangerous.
Before operations, pilots and support staff are briefed on regional and UK weather by forecasters.
Matthew Box, Senior Operational Meteorologist at the Met Office, said: "The wind is a key factor for any pilot if they're going to be able to take off.
"Also, heavy rain and their ability to stop on a runway, depend on their load and configurations."
He added: "The most important thing that the Met Office does is allow the RAF to operate safely."
Winter storms begin on the island in December and end around March when skies clear.
Sgt Wilson added: "We don't want to see any rain. We want it to be lovely and sunny at all times."
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