Tri-Service
Stunning Photos Of RNAS Culdrose's Air Day
A packed flying display was the order of the day at Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose's annual air show.
Members of the public were able to meet aircrew who've served on front line squadrons all over the world, and the teams that help to keep the helicopters flying, from engineers to logisticians.
Last year the air day came to a dramatic finish when the Royal Navy historic flight made an emergency landing on the runway.
The Blades Aerobatic Display Team give us a cockpit-eye view of their display...
This year, though, the day went without a hitch in the glorious Cornish sun.
The blue skies over Culdrose were turned to green, white and red, as a team of Italian aviators thrilled the crowds, while former Cold War machines were put through their paces by pilots from Poland and Switzerland.
The Royal Navy home team also put up a great show with both modern and historic aircraft, from wartime favourites like the Seafire and the iconic Swordfish, to the latest in helicopter technology in the shape of the Wildcat and the Merlin.
Those who stayed to the end were rewarded by the appearance of the Sea Vixen – a potential successor on the Air Display circuit when the mighty Vulcan bows out.
This year’s flying had a truly international feel, with nail-biting displays lasting over six hours in total.
The Italian Air Force’s version of the Red Arrows boasted the largest flag, with the 10-strong team painting the sky with their national colours.
The hero of last year’s show, medal-winning Lieutenant Commander Chris Gotke made a return visit flying the Texan.
Another highlight was the fly past of Fleet Air Arm aircraft which included Culdrose based Merlins and Sea Kings, a Lynx, and two Wildcats.
The action in the sky, meanwhile, was complemented by a whole range of activities on the ground, as personnel from RNAS Culdrose came out on show to tell the public about their important role within the Royal Navy, and the operations that they have been involved in across the world.
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