Original 1940s RAF Beadon Flying Suit - Size 5

An original RAF Beadon Flying Suit made from Ventile cotton in a size 5 which is denoted by the RAF stores code 22C/1051.

The Beadon flying suit came into issue at the tail end of the Second World War and proved a popular suit with aircrews in the immediate post-war years, most likely due to its lightweight comfortable nature.

The Beadon, or 'Lightweight Flying Overall' as it is correctly termed, was designed as a survival suit; hence its 12 pockets. These pockets were designed to carry a variety of items such as rations, medical items and survival items, most of which had been carried in the tropical survival kit previously.

The suit is made from ventile cotton and must be the earliest example of this material being used by the RAF. It was used later on the MK1 flying suits as well as the ventile smocks and trousers but I believe this is it in its earliest form. It also features zips with broad arrow markings to the rear and the letter 'W' to the front. Knitted cuffs can be found inside the sleeves and a knitted collar is present to the neck. A partially integral waist belt is also present and fastens with a double pronged buckle. The rear of the belt is back with webbing for strength. 

The condition of the suit is good but it has clearly been worn and has numerous stains and marks to show this. There is some damage to the collar as is common with the suits. Overall however it still displays nicely.

All in all a nice original early RAF flying suit with loads of great details.