News

One of the special edition stamps features the late Ray Hanna, the New Zealand born fighter pilot who was a founding member of the Red Arrows and later known as a display pilot of historic aircraft.
(Credit: Royal Mail)

For over six decades, the Red Arrows have been synonymous with the Royal Air Force’s commitment to precision, skill, and aerial artistry. As the RAF Aerobatic Team marks its 60th display season, the Royal Mail has honoured their contribution to Britain’s rich aviation history and their role as international ambassadors of the skies.

Each stamp in the newly released set of eight is more than just a collector’s item; it is a narrative of the meticulous training and daring feats that go into every Red Arrows performance. The vibrant red, white, and blue trails painted across the sky are a testament to the team’s unwavering dedication and the RAF’s pursuit of excellence.

One of the special edition release of Red Arrows stamps features the late Ray Hanna, the New Zealand born fighter pilot who was a founding member of the Red Arrows in 1963 as ‘Red 3’. Later going on the become team leader ‘Red 1”.

Hanna also founded The Old Flying Machine Company, which flies Second World War vintage fighter aircraft at air displays around the world. He was noted for his outstanding display flying of Spitfires in particular.

Red Arrows

One of the special edition Red Arrows stamps
(Credit: Royal Mail)

From their inception in 1964, the Red Arrows have been the pride of the RAF. Their red-painted Gnat jet trainers, and later the Hawk T1 jets, have become iconic symbols of Britain’s aeronautical prowess.

Squadron Leader Jon Bond, Team Leader for the 2024 season, encapsulates the spirit of the Red Arrows: “This milestone season underscores the excellence, dedication, and pride of all those who have been a part of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team over the past 60 seasons. These new stamps, featuring brilliant images captured by skilled RAF personnel, are a celebration of our heritage and a source of inspiration, harnessing the wonder of aviation to captivate audiences worldwide.”

The Red Arrows’ Enduring Connection to RAF Scampton

The bond between the Red Arrows and RAF Scampton is etched into the annals of British aviation. Scampton was of course the base used by the newly formed 617 Sq. for the famous Dams Raid. Several other squadrons operated from Scampton through the war years and later it became a V-Bomber base during the Cold War.

The station’s expansive grounds and strategic location provided the perfect setting for the Red Arrows to hone their skills and prepare for their breathtaking performances that captivated audiences worldwide.

As RAF Scampton transitions into a new chapter, the memories of the Red Arrows’ red jets soaring through its airspace will remain a cherished part of its history. The team’s relocation to RAF Waddington, another base with rich Bomber Command history) marks a new beginning, but the legacy of RAF Scampton and its contribution to the Red Arrows’ success will never be forgotten.