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Squadron Leader James Turner

About Squadron Leader James Turner

Red 1 - Team Leader

Years with the Red Arrows: The 2027 season will be James' first as Team Leader.

Joined the RAF: 2006

RAF CAREER

James returns to the Red Arrows as Team Leader, flying as Red 1, having previously spent four seasons with the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team.

After joining the RAF, James was selected to fly fast-jets. During advanced flying training, he was chosen to become a Qualified Flying Instructor, spending three years teaching pilots on the Hawk T1 at RAF Valley.

In 2013, James joined 1(F) Squadron, flying the Typhoon FGR4. He carried out Quick Reaction Alert duties in the UK and the Falkland Islands and took part in multinational exercises before moving to 29 Squadron to train the next generation of Typhoon pilots.

James first joined the Red Arrows for the 2020 season. He completed four years as a display pilot, with his final year in 2023 leading the Synchro Pair - known for their spectacular close passes and the drawing of a heart in the sky.

After leaving the Red Arrows he spent a year in the Falkland Islands, serving in the British Forces headquarters and supporting the defence of the islanders’ right to self-determination. He also spent 18 months working in RAF procurement, focusing on the Eurofighter Typhoon in close collaboration with industry and the programme's partner nations of Germany, Italy and Spain.

As Red 1, James now leads the team in-the-air and on-the-ground.

EDUCATION AND LIFE BEFORE THE RAF

  • James is originally from Hertfordshire.
  • He attended Newport Grammar School in Essex and Hills Road Sixth Form College in Cambridge.
  • Studied computer science at Imperial College London.
  • Was a member of the University of London Air Squadron.