Matt Brighty piloting "Blackjack"
Families Day is a way for the RAF to give something back to the families of the RAF personnel - most bases hold them in one form or another. Usually there are stalls and static displays and events on the ground for the families to take part in. There is generally a small air display. The air display also attracts aviation enthusiasts to watch the (free) display off-base.
Sitting in the car, watching the rain
So July 8th found me up at "The Wave", the Waddington Aircraft Viewing Enclosure, in near monsoon rain and a thunderous sky, brightened only by flashes of lightning, waiting and wondering whether the scheduled air display was going to go ahead, Thankfully, after a couple of hours of waiting and sitting in the car the rain cleared, and although we didn't get stunning blue skies, it was clear enough for the display to go ahead.
Blackjack ascending
Each year the pilots that perform the displays for the RAF (no matter what aircraft) have to pass their PDA - Public Display Authority, which is an annual assessment to determine whether each pilot has the skills to undertake displays at airshows and flypasts. This year's Typhoon display pilot is Flight Lieutenant Matt Brighty. In this livery, which I think is awesome, the Typhoon is called BlackJack.
Low level fly over
Blackjack came in low and fast as the last aircraft to display (whilst I was there). I always preferred the old Tornados over the Typhoon, but Matt's display was nothing short of remarkable. And not only showed off his excellent piloting skills, but also showed of the aircraft's capabilities. And boy, what it can do. Low level flypasts, vertical climbs, standing up and slow speeds, all in all a fabulous display.
Blackjack
Finally it was time for Blackjack to return to RAF Coningsby - about five minutes away as the crow (or rather, the Typhoon, flies), leaving a very happy and satisfied crowd of enthusiasts, ranging in age from two or three (a couple of youngsters in their "Red Arrows" pilots costume jumpsuits) up to an 81 year old lady that seemed as excited by the display as everyone else.
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I can mostly be found shooting models, aviation, motorsports and, when I can, wildlife. But I enjoy most aspects of photography. You can find more of my work on the links below.
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