The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team (RAFAT), “The Red Arrows” have begun their journey to Canada via Iceland and Greenland as part of their MapleHawk 2024 tour.
The first leg saw “The Reds” arrive in Iceland yesterday before transiting to Narsarsuaq, Greenland earlier today where they will stop for rest, aircraft maintenance and refuelling.
The five-week-long Maple Hawk tour will see the team display at several locations across Canada including at the Air Show Atlantic in Nova Scotia and the Canadian International Air Show in Toronto as well as carrying out flypasts.
British High Commissioner to Canada, Susannah Goshko, said: “It’s fantastic that on the 100th anniversary of the RCAF, the Red Arrows have chosen to come to Canada to celebrate our shared military ties.
“In their own 60th Anniversary year, the Red Arrows tour across Canada will be both a joy to watch and a fantastic way to highlight the close and enduring relationship between our two Air Forces.”
The Red Arrows 60th Diamond year also marked the return of the nine-ship formation allowing them to fly the famous Diamond Nine formation, something that has already been wowing airshow crowds across the UK this summer.
Wing Commander Adam Collins, Officer Commanding of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, added: “The Red Arrows are excited, and honoured, to return to Canada to help celebrate the centennial of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
“The visit will highlight the strength of the long and enduring partnership between the United Kingdom’s military and Canada’s Armed Forces. We’re looking forward to the prospect of meeting countless people, performing our new Diamond Season display and creating many memories and great moments at airshows and events.”
Squadron Leader Jon Bond (Red One) added: “I’ve been very fortunate to display in Canada previously and I know the shows are always well-attended, with enthusiastic crowds. All of us in the Red Arrows can’t wait for Maple Hawk and the opportunity to showcase the Royal Air Force and UK at these brilliant events and locations.”
The tour is being supported by a Royal Air Force Airbus A400M.
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