RAF pilot Al Green has been selected to join the elite 99 Squadron at Brize Norton in Oxfordshire.
The Squadron Leader, 32, is a former student of the Royal Grammar School in High Wycombe and now lives with his wife Corinne in Oxfordshire.
He has been a pilot since 1988, has flown various types of crafts, but admits his inclusion in the squadron is going to be a challenge.
He said: "Everyone has been so helpful in teaching us to fly the aircraft. It has fly-by-wire technology, so it is much more responsive. Also the flight deck is a lot more advanced with glass screens and a head up display."
Sqn Ldr Green has recently become involved in the training programme on the C-17 Globemaster III, a heavy-lift transport aircraft.
His training so far has included trips to Oklahoma in the United States before going on to Charleston Air force base in California.
The C-17 is on a seven-year lease until the A400M comes into service.
Sqn Ldr Green's parents Chris and Wendy, who live in Tylers Green, said they are "very proud' of their son.
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