The world famous Red Arrows Diamond Nine formation has graced the skies of Lincolnshire for the first time this season as the Team reached a milestone in their 2010 display work up.

After more than four months of intensive training, the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team flew their first display practice today (10 March) with all nine aircraft flying together in formation. It took place at the Team’s base at Royal Force Scampton and was a proud day for new Team Leader and Red 1, Squadron Leader Ben Murphy. 

Squadron Leader Murphy says: “The first time that we fly as a nine aircraft in formation is a big milestone for us. It means that we are a step closer to being ready to perform our display in public this summer. I would like to say a big well done to all of the pilots, the engineers and the support team who have all worked exceptionally hard over the winter months to enable us to get to this exciting stage.”

Since October, the Red Arrows pilots have been flying three slots a day, five days a week. The process begins with small formations of three or four aircraft as the new pilots learn flying references and formation shapes, slowing building up to larger numbers of aircraft.

The first nine-ship was also a big occasion for first year pilots Flight Lieutenant Ben Plank and Flight Lieutenant Kirsty Moore.

2010 will be the Red Arrows’ 46th display season. Since the Team’s creation in 1965, the Red Arrows have flown over 4,200 displays in 53 countries. Today the Red Arrows are renowned throughout the world, acting as ambassadors for Great Britain when displaying overseas. They also support UK industry by demonstrating the capabilities of British equipment and expertise. The Royal Air Force has some 3,000 servicemen and women deployed overseas on operations at any one time. Many of the Red Arrows’ pilots and support staff have recently returned from Afghanistan and Iraq and many will be temporarily sent on operations overseas during their time with the Red Arrows. As soon as they leave the Team, all will return to duties which directly support the Royal Air Force’s operational commitments around the world.

Source: RAF
Picture: Rob Vogelaar ZAP16 Group