Celebrating a British Icon

The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, better known as the Red Arrows, have been dazzling audiences for six decades. More than a display team, they are a beloved and enduring symbol of British pride.

The story of the Red Arrows began in 1964 when the RAF drew together several display teams under one banner. Based at RAF Fairford, shortly before relocating to RAF Kemble in 1966, their mission was not simply to showcase extraordinary flying skills, but to embody the excellence and discipline of the Royal Air Force. Since then, they have become global ambassadors for the United Kingdom, representing the nation at prestigious air shows, state occasions and royal celebrations.

Their performances symbolise a rich heritage: a reminder of Britain’s pioneering flying history that continues to inspire new generations through the power of aviation.

What makes the Red Arrows so iconic, beyond their spectacular bold red Hawks, is their inimitable synergy; the choreography of every display a testament to their unparalleled discipline and control. Each Red Arrow pilot is an elite RAF fast-jet flyer, selected following years of operational service. Training is relentless, precision is paramount and teamwork is everything. Yet, despite their fame, the life of a Red Arrows pilot remains an enigma to many.

We spoke with Red 10, Team Supervisor, Squadron Leader Graeme Muscat, a Red Arrows elite flyer, about what it takes to join the team, preparing for those heart-stopping formations, and how he feels to wear the famous red uniform.

What first inspired you to become a Red Arrows pilot?
Like most RAF pilots, seeing the Red Arrows and RAF aircraft at air shows as a child probably inspired us all. Additionally, for me, whilst I was already serving in the RAF, I paid a visit to the team. Learning how they operate, and the inspiration and outreach of the team really struck a chord.

How does the selection process work, and what qualities are essential to make the team?
All pilots must have at least 1000–1500 flying hours, be assessed as ‘Above Average’ and have completed at least one frontline operational tour before they can even apply. They all go through a sift and then we take up to nine pilots and put them through a formal interview, flying test, mock media interview and, one of the most important tests – peer review by both pilots and engineers. This is critically important given we work so closely together throughout the years, often seeing more of each other than friends and family. That trust, reliance, and camaraderie across the whole team is essential to what we do, and the team simply couldn’t function without it.

Can you describe the intensity of the training programme?
It’s a year-round training cycle. We start in mid-October, flying up to three times a day every day from Monday to Friday. The formations begin small, with simple loops and rolls, before incorporating more aircraft into the formation and additional shapes and moves. We continue right through until spring when we head overseas to make use of the better Mediterranean weather and we can really get the skills and practice in ready for our Public Display Authority, which allows us to display in front of the public all through the summer.

What is it like flying just feet away from your teammates at such high speeds?
It’s quite natural. We are all military fast-jet pilots, and our training and previous experience have taught us that this is perfectly normal; we just need to learn to do it upside down! It soon becomes second nature and doesn’t really phase us.

How do you maintain focus and composure during complex aerial manoeuvres?
It’s the nature of the job — both the Red Arrows and previous frontline operations condition us to maintain focus when needed. That’s the beauty of being such an experienced team of pilots.

Do you have a favourite formation or manoeuvre to perform, and why?
Most people would say the Tornado: it’s dynamic, colourful and a great crowd pleaser.

How do the Red Arrows balance tradition with innovation in their displays?
Tradition is how we stay true to the Red Arrows form. We use a huge catalogue of previous moves that allow us to stay fresh and give the crowd the Red Arrows experience. However, we are always trying to be innovative, both with new moves for the display and our technological advances. For example, this year we have been using Synthetic Aviation Fuel – at between 15 and 40 per cent, but we have also used 100 per cent environmentally-friendly smoke. So, we are the first display team in the world to use both environmentally friendly fuel and smoke.

What does it mean to you, personally, to represent Britain on the world stage?
It’s incredibly important. We know we are ambassadors, and we approach our role with great pride. We literally fly the Union flag on our chest, the tails of our aircraft and of course, with the red, white and blue in our smoke. To be part of something that puts Britain at the forefront of anyone’s mind is an absolute honour.

Is there a performance or occasion that stands out as particularly memorable?
For me, personally, it’s anything we do in the north west of the UK. Being from that part of the country, which isn’t traditionally associated with the RAF, it’s great to bring the RAF and showcase what we do there. However, the occasion of flying over your Monarch, both Queen Elizabeth and King Charles, has been an absolute highlight.

What advice would you give young people dreaming of one day flying with the Red Arrows?
Work hard, dream big and never let go of your goal. Believe in yourself, especially when all those around you may start to falter. If you are determined enough, you can do anything you want to.