Another day in paradise (Kirkwall Airport)

The kick in the backside I needed

I was standing in Tesco's today and Gwenda, mentioned in previous posts told me she had recently had a look at the blog and loved it.  It's nice to be appreciated so I thought it was time for the final part of Leuchars.

Starting with this F50 which I think is one of the most graceful turboprops.

And and F4 Phantom in Leuchars livery

This aircraft was beautiful, a Sea Hawk from the Royal Navy Historic flight

This Gnat arrived and passed in front of us but did not demo

The Blades in their Extras did an unbelieveable display and then I understood why when I discovered the pilots are ex Red Arrows.

This Merlin arrived but took part in the static display

Team Guinot arrived

A better view of the Boeing Stearman.  Incidentally Team Guinot is the worlds only formation wing walking display team.

XX185 in the static display

Enter the mighty meteor

ZD704 arrived with the VIP's

A picture of the Blades lined up ready to perform

And the Red Arrows ready for their slot

Then there was no mistake with the approaching sound of the RAF Battle of Britain Flight

And then they were on the ground, they need no introduction and one of the highlights of the day was the Lancaster parking right in front of me and revving up all four engines, Music to my ears.

And then it was time for the Red Arrows, they could not do their performance last year but not so this year.  26 degrees and clear skies.  Do you spot the odd man out, the one in the middle is obviously a Eurofighter, I love this pic.  Sadly at this size it does not do them justice.

I felt like ducking

And I thought I would end this blog note with an aircraft that I surprised the RAF did not consider but every aircraft from every AirForce put on a fantastic display.  The F16 is awesome. but the Typhoon is a beast

It would be wrong of me not to thank the Royal Air Force for an absolutely fantastic couple of days and for the hospitality they gave.  Everything from start to finish was polished and professional and I loved every minute of it.

Finally I would like to thank my long suffering wife, Shona, my kids and my parents who clubbed in to give me this day for my birthday.  I couldn't think of anything better.

Not forgetting anyone who takes the time to read this

Take care and Happy New Year

Neil