New Typhoon display pilot announced

The RAF has announced Flight Lieutenant Matt Brighty as their new typhoon pilot for the 2023 display season.

In a tweet from the display team account, they said "eagle eyed" fans may have noticed a change to the blackjack jet, and that Flight Lieutenant Brighty would be taking on the role next year.

Speaking about his appointment 'Brighty' said: "The 2023 display season looks to be another great year and I'm looking forward to displaying the aircraft and meeting so many fans throughout." 

The selection process to find the new display team pilot usually begins in the October or November for the following year.

The selection is conducted by the Officer Commanding 29 Squadron, plus RAF Coningsby's Station Commander and the Combat Air Force Commander - with the final decision being made by Air Officer Commanding No 1 Group (AOC 1 Gp).

They make their selection based on the pilot's previous experience and ability.

Currently the Display Pilot is selected from the Qualified Pilot Instructors serving on 29 Squadron.

Flight Lieutenant Brighty will have spent the last few weeks shadowing his predecessor and will have had the opportunity to fly in some practice displays.

Now he will be tasked with designing his own routine for the 2023 season.

The routine will be created from pre-approved acrobatic movements that the typhoon is known to be capable of.

There is an opportunity to add new moves, but they have to be approved by the AOC 1 Gp.

Along with a full routine, Flight lieutenant Brighty will also be required to create a limited and flat routine for when there is poor weather.

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During this development process the Flight Lieutenant will use a typhoon simulator to check the sequence before it is airborne.

The simulator will allow the pilot check how the routine is performed in bad weather, such as strong winds, and practise handling the aircraft in the event of an emergency.

The final stage for Flight Lieutenant Brighty will be performing the sequence for AOC 1 Gp, if this all goes well then he signs the routine off by granting Brighty Public Display Authority, which means the routine is ready to be performed in front of crowds in the 2023 display season.