Red Arrows to fly with 7 aircraft instead of 9 for most displays | UK | News
The Red Arrows will operate a seven-aircraft formation instead of nine at many shows over the next few years. It was claimed that this was due to the old engines.
While the iconic aerobatic team will perform with a full “Diamond Nine” on special occasions, including the King’s birthday, and as part of an international flying display in the US on July 4 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Independence Day, only seven jets will take part in the first show of the season in Crete this weekend and throughout the rest of the summer. The engine powering the aging Red Arrows Hawk T1 jet is no longer in production.
As a result, the RAF will need to rotate the use of its remaining engines, which can be mounted and detached from aircraft. The reduced formation will remain the norm until the Ministry of Defense (MoD) purchases a new fleet of Red Arrows. Sky News reported.
But the decision was affected by a delay in the announcement of a major plan for new investments in land, navy and air forces, which was due to be published last autumn. An aviation company competing for the Red Arrows contract has since fallen into administration.
Current Hawk aircraft will be retired in 2030 after the previous Conservative government extended the retirement date to 2021.
The Express contacted the Ministry of Defense and an RAF spokesman said: “The Red Arrows are the pride of the nation, known worldwide for their first-class precision, speed and teamwork.
“Red Arrows will fly a nine-aircraft formation for HM The King’s Birthday Flypast and 4th July 250 Commemorations in the USA this year. It will operate seven aircraft for other displays and will continue to deliver high-quality attractions at air shows and events in the UK, mainland Europe and further afield.
“This will support sustainable management of the Hawk T1 fleet and prepare the team for the transition to a future aircraft type.”
This comes after the Red Arrows announced they would not be performing at this year’s Blackpool Air Show. Will Myles, President of VisitBlackpool, said: “We fully respect the important role they play in representing the UK domestically and globally and look forward to welcoming them back in years to come.”
