Alan Incell Riley facts for kids

Captain Alan Incell Riley (born December 9, 1897 – died December 17, 1960) was a brave British pilot. He became a flying ace during World War I. This means he shot down five or more enemy aircraft in air battles.

Early Life

Alan Riley was born in London, England, on December 9, 1897. His parents were George and Margaret Riley. He grew up near Clacton-on-Sea and went to Malvern College for his education.

Military Adventures

Alan Riley started his military career as a Private. He joined a group called the Artists Rifles.

Later, he joined the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) in 1916. The RFC was the air force of Britain during World War I. He flew with them until 1919.

After the war, he rejoined the air force. This time it was the Royal Air Force (RAF), which was formed after the RFC. He served in the RAF from 1923 to 1928. In 1932, he officially left the military.

In 1919, Alan Riley received a special award. It was called the Air Force Cross. This award is given to members of the British armed forces for bravery in the air.

Flying After the War

After his military service, Alan Riley continued to fly. He became a commercial pilot.

Flying for Airco

From 1919 to 1920, he worked for a company called Airco Ltd. He flew planes on a route between London and Paris. This was one of the first international air routes.

Working with Westland Aircraft

In 1928, he worked at the Westland Aircraft Works. This company built airplanes.

Adventures in India

Alan Riley spent some time in India. He had many interesting experiences there.

Teaching at Delhi Flying Club

Starting in 1928, Riley became a flight instructor. He taught people how to fly at the Delhi Flying Club. He even flew Lady Willingdon from Delhi to Calcutta. He used a special plane called a de Havilland Puss Moth.

Winning the Viceroy's Cup

In 1933, Alan Riley won an important air race. It was called the Viceroy's Cup. This race was 700 miles long. It started and ended in Delhi, with stops in other cities like Lucknow and Agra. He flew very fast, averaging 115 miles per hour!

Exploring New Air Routes

Also in 1933, he flew a long survey flight. He traveled 1,500 miles to check out a possible new air route. This was for Indian National Airways. He was looking for ways to connect cities in northern India by air.

Later Years

In his later life, Alan Riley worked as a company director. He passed away in London on December 17, 1960, when he was 63 years old.

Family Life

Alan Riley married Ella Adele Van Os. Their wedding was on June 19, 1926. It took place at St. Mary Abbots Church in Kensington, London. Ella later worked as a nurse during World War II.