Falling with style: RAF Falcons kickstart their parachute display season on home soil
The RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team have kicked off their 2026 season on home turf as they spectacularly launched at RAF Brize Norton.
Marking the start of another year showcasing military parachuting, the event offered the first public glimpse ahead of a busy schedule that will see the team perform across the UK and the rest of Europe.
The UK's only centrally funded, professional military parachute team has captivated audiences since its inception in 1961, with displays that include advanced manoeuvres performed at speeds of up to 120mph.
Speaking to BFBS Radio, Commander Air Wing, Group Captain Andy McIntyre, said the display above the largest RAF station in the UK showcases the RAF's accessibility.
"We've spent the last couple of months literally managing the consequences of ties and tensions in the Middle East, and the whole time we've got out high-end military free-fallers honing their skills for the benefit of the public," he said.
"It brings to life what we do, and how we can apply those skills in the core military context."
Showcasing best of the RAF
As well as providing a distinctive demonstration of freefall and canopy skills during the display season, each Falcons Team member undertakes continual advanced training as Parachute Jumping Instructors in preparation for future employment in support of the Parachute Regiment, the Royal Marines and other specialist units.
Asked what makes the Falcons display team unique within the RAF, Gp Capt McIntyre said it "encapsulates so much of what we have at Brize Norton".
"We have the air wing, we have the station, we have the trials team, the Army for the air dispatch, [and] we've got contractors," he said.
"The Falcons epitomise how many different parts of the organisation come together to deliver something for others' benefit – it's fantastic."
Practice makes perfect
Following the jump, Officer Commanding of the Falcons, Flight Lieutenant Dominic Compton-Davies, spoke of the main challenges his team faced.
"It's the timing. Timing is everything, but we've got earpieces that the team coach can speak to all of us about.
"It's just getting the timings right, getting the heights right. Certain manoeuvres you've got to be at different heights to everyone else in the display, so just getting everything bob on."
For Flt Lt Compton-Davies, who has 450 jumps under his belt, the adrenaline is felt "all the way from the exit and down to the ground", with the thunderous cheers from the crowds playing their part in delivering that.
The RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team's display season typically runs from May to September.
You can find out more about the team and when their next displays will take place by following this link.
Join Our Newsletter
