Red Arrows return to mark RAF centenary
THE Red Arrows will make a spectacular return to Southport Air Show this year, as the RAF celebrates its 100th anniversary.
The world’s best aerobatic team will be in Southport on Friday, July 6, after missing last year’s event.
They will be joined by an exciting lineup of aircraft including The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, the RAF tutor display team and The Blades at the three-day event from July 6-8.
The Red Arrows are planning to display with their trademark nine aircraft formation for the RAF100 year.
To enable this to happen, Squadron Leader Mike Ling is re-joining the squadron to fly in the Red 3 position for the season.
Sqn Ldr Ling will cover for Flight Lieutenant David Stark while he recuperates from injuries sustained in an incident at RAF Valley in March – which also led to the death of engineer Corporal Jonathan Bayliss.
Wing Commander Andrew Keith, Officer Commanding, Royal Air Force Ae r o b a t i c Team, said: “Preparations continue for the Red Arrows’ 2018 season, when the team will play its part in marking the Royal Air Force’s centenary year and aims to inspire all those who see our displays.
“Careful consideration was given in making the decision to bring in a pilot to the Red 3 position.
“As the squadron recovers from the tragic loss of a colleague, the ongoing convalescence of Flt Lt Stark and the safe operation of the Red Arrows is paramount for us.
“The decision will also allow the most visually appealing solution for the 2018 season and maintain the Red Arrows’ famous Diamond Nine shape.”
Sqn Ldr Ling, a qualified Hawk T1 pilot, is among the most experienced Red Arrows pilots, having previously completed nine seasons with the team – including flying as Red 3 in his first year with the Squadron in 2008. He left the team at the end of last year, having been Red 10 for six seasons.
Taking place on the seafront, the Southport Air Show is one of the largest in the UK.
Visitors can explore the Air Show village and attractions including water walkers, an assault course and the Armed Forces section.
Once the flying starts people can see historic aircraft, fast jets and aerobatics.
Discounted tickets are on sale until Friday, June 29, at 9pm.
For tickets and more information go to southportairshow.com