The world-famous Red Arrows will take to the skies with all-new breathtaking routines to headline this year’s Folkestone Air Display.
The iconic RAF display team will perform at 4pm on Sunday 8 August. The day also includes a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (1pm) and a display by a Stampe biplane (3pm).
Last year’s event was cancelled due to Covid-19 and Folkestone & Hythe District Council Leader Cllr David Monk welcomed its return: “We all love the thrill of the Red Arrows and, with the unlocking of coronavirus restrictions, we are expecting thousands of people to gather to watch.
“It will be just what we all need – and it will also be great for the district – but rest assured, we will be following any Government guidance on Covid regulations on the day.”
Spectators are being encouraged to use public transport on the day, but for those who have to travel by car, two temporary car parks will be available. These are at Radnor Park and Folkestone School for Girls, and both will be open from 10am to 6pm, with a £5, cash-only charge for the whole day.
The Leas and Harbour areas are expected to see an increase in traffic however, and stewards will be working throughout the day to keep disruption to a minimum. Several roads will be closed and there will be suspensions to some parking bays.
Officially called the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, this is the Red Arrows’ 57th season. Speaking about the 20-minute Folkestone show, new team leader Squadron Leader Tom Bould (“Red 1”) said: “We will be displaying some of the biggest shapes in our inventory, including Swan and the Big Vixen Roll with all nine jets just six feet apart, while rolling upside down.
“Hammer Head Break is back, which is a slightly different way to start the second half of the show with an arena-filling spectacle. The Synchro Pair – Reds 6 and 7 – will perform the Boomerang, which is a new manoeuvre for 2021.
“We will also recognise the dedication of the NHS and key workers in the UK, with an all-blue smoke trail in Slalom.”
As well as the air display, there will be food and arts and crafts stalls, live music and a classic car show, all organised by Folkestone Festivals.