A new season of displays at some of the world’s biggest airshows and occasions has begun for the Red Arrows.
Official approval to perform for millions of people this summer has been awarded to the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, following months of training and an annual assessment.
The granting of Public Display Authority (PDA) heralds the start of the Red Arrows’ 52nd season, with dozens of shows in an international programme that runs until October.
The first performance in the UK is on May 29 at the English Riviera Airshow, Torbay.
Wing Commander Sasha Nash, Officer Commanding of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team (RAFAT), said: “PDA is the culmination of seven months of intensive winter training, including the design and refinement of a new, dynamic display, the challenge of operating through prolonged periods of poor weather and the continued maintenance and preparation of our Hawk T1 aircraft.
“Attaining PDA signifies that our display has been independently assessed as consistently meeting the high standards of precision and excellence that we strive for.
“It confirms we are ready to perform for audiences around the world and that our activity is conducted safely and in full compliance with all regulatory requirements.”
Training began at the team’s home of RAF Waddington, Lincolnshire, in autumn last year.
The final phases of pre-season preparation took place in Greece – during a deployment called Exercise Springhawk – where fine weather conditions allow the Red Arrows to perfect and polish a new aerobatic show.
The PDA process checked all aspects of the team’s activities, from the 2026 display itself to safety management, engineering procedures and engagement plans.
It was overseen by senior RAF officers, led by Air Officer Commanding No 1 Group, Air Vice-Marshal Mark Jackson OBE BSc (Hons) RAF.
On being awarded PDA, the pilots changed from their green coveralls, used during training, into their traditional red flying suits worn during the summer season, while the Red Arrows’ ground crew switched to their distinctive blue suits.
The RAFAT’s support team numbers around 140 – the vast majority being engineers and technical specialists.
Wg Cdr Nash said: “I am continually impressed by the professionalism, dedication and talent demonstrated by every single member of the Red Arrows. We are a team united with one clear purpose and a collective pride in everything we achieve together.
“It is a privilege to lead such an inspiring group of people and an honour to work alongside personnel who are genuinely passionate about their role.
“As we don our famous red and blue flying suits, our focus now shifts to delivering a successful display season.
“We look forward to representing the skills and talents of the Royal Air Force and the very best of British aviation, both at home and overseas.
“We take great pride in inspiring future generations, engaging with young people and communities and demonstrating what can be achieved through teamwork, dedication and ambition.
“Through our displays and flypasts, we aim not only to entertain and bring a smile from those who watch us, but to bring people together and leave a lasting impression – encouraging others to dream big and pursue their own ambitions.”
In 2026, the Red Arrows will perform at events in the UK, mainland Europe and during a one-month tour of the United States marking the 250th anniversary of American independence.
At each of these shows, people will be enjoying the team’s new display, which changes each year.
Wing Commander Jon Bond is responsible for designing the display as Team Leader and Red 1.
He said: “The 2026 show has manoeuvres not performed for 30 years, with dynamic additions and very complex flying for the pilots.
“The opening half of the routine has large, sweeping formations that use all the aircraft in the widest and longest shapes possible, to generate the visual impact Red Arrows crowds expect.
“And the thrilling display remains until the very end, with a distinctive showstopper called Cascade in the full version of the display. It was last flown in 1997 and has a powerful loop to around 6,500ft, directly in front of the crowd, which leads into a coordinated fan‑out to a wall formation.”
He added: “Designing the show is always a challenge – juggling lots of different considerations. But it is also one of the most satisfying parts of the role.
“However, getting the crowd’s reaction is always the biggest reward.
“Don’t forget to share your pictures of a new shape, or favourite formation with us online – we always love seeing these images and knowing all of the planning and training has been worth it!”
To see a full list of 2026 shows visit the Displays section of the team's website.
