Red Arrows to visit in June for early show

They will be part of the Guernsey Air Display, which has been shifted forward from its traditional September slot, when the aerobatic planes could not attend.

The air display is scheduled for between 11am and 1.15pm on Thursday 6 June, which coincides with the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy.

‘The Red Arrows and the spectacle of their world class precision flying aerobatics are the biggest draw of any air show,’ said Alex Bridle, managing director of the Guernsey Event Company, which is responsible for raising the funds to get the Guernsey Air Display airborne.

‘We are delighted that our separate application for the Red Arrows to display has been approved and that the thousands on island and visitors who are aviation enthusiasts will be able to enjoy the iconic sights and sounds of the Red Arrows in June this year.’

Organisers are now raising the £60,000 that is needed to cover the costs of the display including the fees for participating aircraft, insurance, fuel and accommodation for the pilots.

It receives a small grant from the States, but relies on support from individuals and businesses.

This year is the centenary of civil aviation in Guernsey.

On 4 October 1919, an Avro 536 prototype seaplane dropped off one passenger, a Lt Fulford, at St Peter Port.

‘The Guernsey Air Display is one mammoth team effort that delights each and every spectator when it takes to the skies above St Peter Port,’ said Alan Brunger, president of the Royal Air Forces Association (Guernsey Branch).

‘The sole raison d’etre of the Guernsey Air Display is to remember and commemorate all those who have fought in conflicts from World War One to the present day and will continue to do so in the future.

‘I cannot think of a better date for the 2019 Guernsey Air Display than 6 June, with all its poignancy of the 75th anniversary of the D-Day Normandy landings.

‘As in June 1944 and all conflicts around the world past, present and future, many who have fought, are fighting or will fight for their country have paid and will pay the ultimate price with their lives.’