Wing Commander Jonathan Heald studied physics at university in Canada, before joining the Royal Air Force as a pilot in 1985. He has flown as a helicopter pilot in numerous roles, including air, land and maritime operations, and instructed Royal Air Force and international student pilots on helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. His staff tours include aviation safety, joint helicopter operations and HQs. He has carried out flying duties in Afghanistan, Hong Kong, Iraq, Kuwait, the USA, throughout Europe and elsewhere. He also has extensive search and rescue experience, from a C2 perspective and as a helicopter squadron commander. He is currently the Executive Officer of the European Air Group, based at Royal Air Force High Wycombe in the United Kingdom.