More than 40,000 people have flocked to Royal Air Force Leuchars today to enjoy a thrilling Airshow celebrating the attack and protect role that the RAF provides for the United Kingdom.
The sun has shone on a captivated audience who enjoyed superb aerobatic and ground displays. The day concluded with a ceremony recognising the Typhoon transition to RAF Lossiemouth in 2014 with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight joining Typhoons from 1 (Fighter) and 6 Squadron on the tarmac to receive the final salute from Station Commander and Air Officer Scotland Air Commodore Gerry Mayhew as a Typhoon of 1 (Fighter) Squadron from RAF Leuchars and a Tornado of 617 Squadron from RAF Lossiemouth concluded the show with an impressive flypast.
Firm crowd favourites the Red Arrows and the RAF Typhoon Display pilot Flight Lieutenant Jamie Norris performed exhilarating flying displays. The Austrian Royal Air Force gave a spectacular Quick Reaction Alert role demonstration with two Typhoons intercepting a Hercules and forcing it to land. This display was the first time the Austrian Typhoons have landed in a Eurofighter Typhoon partner nation, it was well received by the crowds and it complemented a strong line-up of international military and civilian participants.
Station Commander and Air Officer Scotland, Air Commodore Gerry Mayhew said:
“This year’s show has provided a fitting tribute to mark the 65th Battle of Britain at home day here at RAF Leuchars and also sadly our last Airshow. It was fantastic to have had the opportunity to celebrate our history with the many thousands of people who have come to show support for us today.
“We are delighted to have welcomed the Austrian Air Force for their first UK display showing the different role their Typhoon aircraft play policing the skies in Austria. It was very fitting that RAF operational fast jets, the Typhoon and Tornado GR4, were able to conclude the show, underlining the extensive RAF contribution to current operations at home and abroad and the transition of the Typhoon Squadrons from Leuchars to RAF Lossiemouth during 2014.
“I am especially grateful to all those who put so much hard work into the planning of the Airshow and to the Emergency Services, Fife Council and the transport providers who have helped us make today an enjoyable event for everyone.”
Airshow Director, Squadron Leader Jonathan Greenhowe said:
“The 2013 Airshow was themed Attack and Protect, in recognition of our station motto. We have shown the best of British with the Royal Air Force aerobatic team the Red Arrows, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the Typhoon multi-role aircraft along with our friends adding some international flavour. The Austrians have been a great highlight and of course the Swedish Historic Flight with the Viggen. On the static line we had some great displays with the VC 10 from the days of old right up to the future with Voyager. I think we have signed Leuchars off in style with the 2013 Airshow.”
Editor: Sarah Williams
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Photographs:
The Red Arrows display over an RAF Voyager at the RAF Leuchars Airshow.
RAF/MOD Crown Copyright 2013