The Red Arrows

Published: 19 June 2009

The Red Arrows are renowned throughout the world as ambassadors for both the Royal Air Force and the United Kingdom, and since being officially formed in 1965, they have completed over 4,000 displays across the globe.

The Red Arrows unravels an amazing archive of air-to-air photography beautifully captured by world-renowned aviation photographer Jamie Hunter and accompanied snippets of information and facts to indulge an inquisitive mind.  The pages reveal what it is like to be a Red's pilot, what goes on behind the scenes, the training involved and the aircraft itself. 

Hunter’s skill is apparent through his diverse range of photography techniques to show the team’s gripping maneuvers such as the terrifying ‘spaghetti break’ or the ‘diamond nine loop.’ Wide shots, bird’s eye and close-up angles create suspense and show how the team fly aircraft to its limits. This is a real treat for the adrenalin junkie and not for the faint hearted.  Some of the photographer’s most prominent work is that of images of inside the aircraft, shot from the pilot’s perception.  These detailed, intimate shots, allow the reader to be thrown into the cockpit and into the action – almost providing a VIP pass to this exciting world of what Red’s pilot Hawker describes as ‘every schoolboy’s dream’.

Memorable shots consist of the ‘Phoenix Bend’ technique, consisting of 9 aircraft facing up at a vertical degree, across the sea with blue, white and red smoke representing the British flag.  Images like these make the job look effortless and mirror the team’s trust in one another.

Additional inspiring pictures are shots of the famed Synchro pair, who are best known for marvel at performing breathtaking opposition crossover maneuvers.  The photographer’s ability is evident, as on paper the aircraft appear as if inches away, and he also manages to capture their symmetry and precision.

In addition, the photographer effectively uses the opportunity to get the accounts and contributions of pilots, engineers, ground crew and essential support staff, providing a real first-hand insight into the remarkable people that make this world-famous team work.  It is especially evident when a pilot reveals that “the show arrival always sends a shiver down my spine”.

This book is a worthy celebration to all the pilots who have served on this team, to their professionalism, skill and mutual trust, all of which have made them national treasures.  A visual delight, it encourages British pride to the core.

Review by Rhea Johnson