RAF confirms red skies over Scampton

The skies above RAF Scampton will be coloured red this September as the legendary Red Arrows are named among the first display aircraft to confirm participation at the inaugural Scampton Airshow, in Lincolnshire.

Reinforcing its commitment to the new airshow, the Royal Air Force has announced that the nine BAE Systems Hawk T1/T1A jets, which comprise the world-famous Red Arrows, will be a prominent feature at the Scampton Airshow, alongside flying displays from some of the Service’s most dynamic and iconic aircraft.

Spectators will be treated to the trademark combination of close formation and precision flying from the world’s premier aerobatic display team as they will be performing over their home turf under the leadership of Sqn Ldr David Montenegro.

Paul Sall, Airshow Director, said: “We are thrilled to announce the Reds as the first aircraft in what I’m sure will be a great line-up for the debut Scampton Airshow – there really could be no one else to kick it off.

“With almost 5,000 displays under their belt and a very successful tour of the far East and China late last year, the Red Arrows demonstrate the best of British, and the excellence and capabilities of the Royal Air Force. We have had the privilege to see them train during the winter months at the base and are sure that they will leave visitors to the airshow exhilarated.”

Joining the flying display line-up will be leading multi-role combat aircraft, the RAF Typhoon FGR.4.

Displayed by Flt Lt Ryan Lawton of 29(R) Sqn, the Typhoon, from RAF Coningsby, is capable of being deployed in the full spectrum of air operations, and is set to thrill spectators with its incredible agility and power.

As it celebrates its 60 th anniversary, the RAF’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, will display five of its most famous and successful WW2 aircraft. Crucial to the Dambusters raid, spectators will be able to enjoy the evocative sight and sound of the Lancaster bomber, as well as that of four BBMF Spitfires.

The RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team have also confirmed they will be joining the Scampton Airshow line-up with a jaw-dropping free fall performance. The Falcons, fronted by Officer Commanding Flight Lieutenant Simon Owen, are one of the world’s leading free fall display teams.

Their exciting demonstration, which includes advanced manoeuvres, canopy skills and falling at speeds up to 120mph, promises to be a highlight for thrill-seeking onlookers.

Paul Sall continued: “When discussions were in progress surrounding the RAF’s commitment to a new airshow, it was agreed that RAF Scampton was the ideal place to host it.

“Not only does the station hold so much history as the base of the legendary 617 ‘Dambusters’ Squadron and the venerableVulcan, but there is also a huge appetite for an airshow in Lincolnshire.

“Through the BBMF and various ground displays we’ll be looking to reflect this county’s rich aviation heritage.

“It’s great to see that the RAF is continuing to show its full commitment to the airshow, and we look forward to announcing the static aircraft will be added to the line-up in due course.

“The RAF confirmations are just a taste of what’s to come so we really hope everyone will get behind this exciting new event.”

The Scampton Airshow, staged in support of the RAF Charitable Trust, will take place from 9-10 September at RAF Scampton.

Visitors to the show will witness an impressive five-hour flying display, complemented by an array of entertainment on the ground, from a nostalgic Vintage Village through to interactive and engaging STEM exhibits in the Techno Zone.

Under 16s are free to attend with a ticket holding adult. To find out more about the Scampton Airshow, or to buy your tickets, please visit www.scamptonairshow.com