The Red Arrows have been forced to cancel appearances at three UK events after their aircraft were stranded in North America due to adverse weather conditions. The aerobatic team had been on a tour of the US, including a flypast over New York harbour to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence, but their return journey was delayed because of a prolonged period of poor weather in north-eastern Canada.
Three UK events affected
The cancellations affect Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow on August 14-16, a flypast at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo on August 15, and the start of Lyme Regis RNLI Lifeboat Week on August 16. The RAF stated on Saturday that the Atlantic crossing is expected to take place late next week, making participation impossible.
Mayor's disappointment
Philip Evans, mayor of Lyme Regis, expressed his dismay: "Having brought the Red Arrows to Lyme for the first time in 1974 and subsequently again in 2016/17, I was distraught to learn that the RAF's crack aerobatic team had withdrawn from their scheduled appearance on Sunday August 16 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Lyme Lifeboat."
Lyme Regis Town Council had contributed £10,000 towards the visit, raised through public donations. Evans confirmed that all donations would be refunded, and efforts would be made to secure a visit next year.
Safety first
Wing Commander Sasha Nash, chief of the RAF Aerobatic Team, said: "We are very sorry the Red Arrows cannot participate at these events and we are grateful to organisers and communities for their understanding. Every effort is being made to ensure the Red Arrows can recommence the busy display season as soon as possible. However, safety is the only factor that will determine the timing of the team's return from Canada."
Jenny Williams of Eastbourne Borough Council acknowledged the situation: "We understand that the safety of the team must always come first. I wish them all a safe journey home." She announced that the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress Sally B, the last airworthy example in Europe, would join Airbourne's line-up as a replacement.
The Red Arrows are still scheduled to appear at Cromer Carnival on August 19, assuming their return is completed.
