Break
First display at RAF Waddington's recent "Families Day" (after the torrential downpour) was the Saudi Air Force "Falcons", Like their UK counterpart, the Red Arrows, they use the BAE Systems Hawks so apart from their livery, they look a lot alike, especially from a distance.
One
I really enjoyed their display, it was fast, precise and exciting. However, there were sadly a (very) few people in The Wave car park where I took these images from, that weren't overly impressed. There are always some aren't there! I heard somebody say "they are just Red Arrow copies". To be honest a lot of aerobatic displays contain similar elements. But let's just look at the skill of these pilots in a little more detail shall we.
Big Smoke
Imagine being on a six lane motorway (or highway/freeway depending upon where you live). Imagine the traffic on that motorway is all travelling at 80mph. You, as a driver, need to be alert and totally aware of all of the traffic in the other lanes and in front and behind you, especially if other drivers are switching lanes. The concentration needed. Now add another dimension, in the air you have right, left, in front, behind, up and down. Now increase the speed to 260mph (or up to 640 on a vertical descent). Then you need to memorise the routine, each manoeuvre. And on top of that, you have to be "one" with your aircraft. Your team mates put their lives in your hands. No matter what display team, they all need to be extremely skillful pilots.
Green And White
Personally, I would never bad mouth any aerobatic display team, given their obvious skill fearlessness and all encompassing training. The Saudi Falcons were up in the air for around 15 or 20 minutes, and they were brilliant. They displayed in what must have been awful conditions and totally wow'd the (majority of the) crowd.
Dramatic Sky
I would certainly go watch them again. I bet they are absolutely awesome against a bright blue sky in their home country, must be so different to flying in our grey skies.
Salute
I had a fantastic couple of hours at the Wave watching the displays. My good friend 
Will get the remaining shots up from my visit in the next couple of days.
About me:
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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