Birds strike Red Arrows jet before VJ Day flypast

Birds strike Red Arrows jet before VJ Day flypast

During a recent flypast, a member of the RAF Red Arrows squadron encountered a bird strike. The incident occurred as the aerobatic display team was en route to the National Memorial Arboretum, located near Lichfield, Staffordshire, to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day. Fortunately, the pilot managed to safely return to Bournemouth, and the planned flypast proceeded with an eight aircraft formation as originally intended.

Following the unexpected incident, all nine jets, including the one that experienced the bird strike, participated in the Eastbourne International Airshow in East Sussex later that day. Flight Lieutenant George Hobday, pilot of Red 7, expressed his sentiments about flying for the veterans on VJ Day, describing it as “humbling” and “an absolute honour.” He emphasized the meticulous planning that goes into such events, highlighting the team’s dedication to delivering the best possible flypast each time.

VJ Day, also known as Victory over Japan Day, is observed annually on August 15th to commemorate Japan’s surrender to the Allied forces in 1945, marking the end of World War Two. Since 1965, the Red Arrows have been captivating audiences with their diamond nine formation, showcasing a blend of close formations, flypasts, and precision flying. Their performances continue to captivate and inspire audiences around the world with their skill and precision in the skies.

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