They fly in the passenger seat of the Hawk to and from display airfields and service the aircraft before and after every display when operating away from the team's home base. Ten aircraft engineering technicians and one photographer are chosen to form a team known as the Circus.Ĭircus members are each allocated to a specific pilot for the duration of the summer display season. Every team member has undergone intensive training in their particular specialisation throughout their Royal Air Force career. The Blues represent several of the Royal Air Force’s broad range of professions. The latter are known as ‘The Blues’ because they wear distinctive royal blue flying suits during the display season. This team is made up of a Team Manager, a Public Relations Manager, Aircrew Planning Officer, Operations Officers, Engineering Officers, an Adjutant and approximately 85 engineering technicians and other support staff. Without them, the Red Arrows could not function. The support team’s success results from their Royal Air Force training, the pride they take in their work, and their determination, motivation, and, very often, sheer hard work. The teamwork shown by the pilots in the air is reflected in the dedication and professionalism of the support staff on the ground. It is the hard work of the team’s support personnel that keep the Red Arrows flying. The Team Leader must have completed a three-year tour as a team pilot earlier in their career and is appointed in a separate selection process. Up to three new pilots are chosen each year to replace the three that have finished their tour. Be assessed as being above average in their flying roleĪ shortlist of up to nine applicants are examined during a thorough selection week, and are put through a gruelling flying test, formal interview, media test and peer assessments.Have completed a frontline, operational tour.RAF pilots must meet these criteria to apply for selection to the Red Arrows:

Fighter pilot names