Visitors to the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford today were treated to a one-off flypast by the Red Arrows and the British Airways “BOAC” Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet.
The flypast saw a special British Airways flight, BA100, leading the nine red jets across the skies over the Gloucestershire airbase.
Thousands watched as Senior First Officer Tom Perrins flew the aircraft in formation with the RAF Hawks for the special event.
Also on the flight, and in command, was Captain Richard Allen-Williams along with Captain Simon Scholey and Captain Jonny Lutton.
Captain Allen-Williams said: “We hope the sight of our BOAC liveried Boeing747 provided a wonderfully nostalgic moment for the Air Tattoo audience today. It was a huge honour for us to fly alongside the Red Arrows at RAF Fairford and to do so in our centenary year is even more special.”
The flight was even more special for Cabin Crew member Julia Lowes whose brother is Flight Lieutenant Dan Lowed, Red 9.
Julia said: “I only joined British Airways four months ago and this is Dan’s last year flying in the Reds so the timing couldn’t be more perfect. Dan and I have both pursued our dream careers, but to fly together is something I’d never have imagined. It was fantastic watching Dan in action from the BOAC aircraft. Aviation is a very much a family affair as our Dad was a 747 Captain and our younger brother is a First Officer.”
Leading the Red Arrows as ever was Red 1, Squadron Leader Martin Pert who said that flying alongside the BOAC 747 was “an incredibly memorable moment for our pilots and those watching on the ground.”
