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Celebrating 60 years of Helicopter Operations in Ireland

The RAF were delighted to be invited to join the Irish Air Corps in celebrating 60 years of Helicopter Operations at this year’s Families Day and 2023 Bray Air show, in Dublin.

Military personnel interacting with children at the Families Day

To mark the anniversary, Air Officer Northern Ireland, Air Marshal Sean Reynolds, was hosted by Irish Air Corps GOC, Brigadier General Rory O’Connor. The Red Arrows, the BBMF (Battle of Britain Memorial Flight) with their Avro Lancaster, and a 202 Squadron helicopter from RAF Valley, displayed alongside other international allies and partners.

RAf photographers in front of an Irish Air Corps helicopter

At the Families Day, the BBMF flew alongside the Irish Air Corps Aerobatic Display Team, the Silver Swallows in a crowd-pleasing display. During the day, the public had the chance to experience the history of Irish helicopter aviation, with displays by the incredibly versatile EC135P2 and Augusta Westland AW139 and to engage with RAF and Irish Air Corps personnel.

At Bray, the Red Arrows flew an exciting 20-minute display, inspiring and thrilling the huge crowds that packed the beautiful seaside town.