 By December 1939 , Johnson began his initial training at 22 EFTS ( Elementary Flying Training School ) , Cambridge . He flew only three times in December 1939 and eight in January 1940 , all as second pilot . On 29 February 1940 , Johnson flew solo for the first time in Tiger Moth <unk> . On 15 March and 24 April , his passed a 50 @-@ minute flight test followed by two night flights the following day . The chief flying instructor passed him on 6 May . He then moved to 5 FTS at Sealand before completing training at 7 OTU ( Operational Training Unit ) – RAF Hawarden in Wales flying the Miles Master <unk> where he earned his instrument , navigation , night @-@ flying ratings and practised forced landings . After training was complete on 7 August 1940 , Johnson received his " wings " and was immediately inducted into the General Duties Branch of the RAF as a pilot officer with 55 hours and 5 minutes solo flying . 
