A former Red Arrows pilot who was a member of the founding 1965 display team has died at the age of 90.
Squadron Leader Henry Prince was Red 7 when the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team first took to the skies.
Flying the Folland Gnat, he went on to be Red 6 in the 1966 and 1967 seasons.
Wing Commander Adam Collins, Officer Commanding, of the 2024 Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, said: “As a founding team pilot, Henry Prince has left a lasting mark on the type and style of display still flown by the Red Arrows today.
“The thoughts of the entire Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team are with Henry’s family and friends following his passing at the age of 90.
“He was one of the pilots that built and shaped the distinctive, dynamic display – performed without any gaps in the action and always right in front of the crowd – which has been the hallmark of a Red Arrows show from that very first outing in May 1965.
“The team’s remained in contact with Henry since his retirement from the Royal Air Force and were lucky enough to host him at our home base in March this year. This occasion was, appropriately, to help launch the Red Arrows’ milestone 60th diamond season in 2024.
“Henry was, as ever, sharp, witty and still with a keen eye on the details – giving his feedback and thoughts on the display to the present-day team.
“For the remainder of the 2024 season, Henry’s name will be carried on one of our jets in tribute to his outstanding contribution to aviation, the Royal Air Force and entertaining millions of people as an original Red Arrow.”
