Red Arrows to stop in Jersey… out of sight

Monday 07 September 2020

The Red Arrows will be making a brief stop in Jersey this week.

The jets are usually a popular fixture of the annual International Air Display.

But covid has called off the festival this year, with organiser Deputy Mike Higgins taking the decision over fears spectators would not properly be able to maintain a physical distance.

Despite not performing over Jersey skies, they will be making a brief stop-over in the island before they take part in Guernsey's air display, which will be facilitated by Jersey Air Traffic Controllers.

Pictured: Distancing concerns grounded this year's air display in Jersey.

The ‘Reds’ are due to travel from their RAF base in Scampton, Lincolnshire, arriving at Jersey Airport mid-morning on Wednesday.

Following an overnight stay, they'll take off around 12:30 on Thursday to take part in Guernsey's air display before briefly returning to Jersey and then taking off again to head home.

Islanders might catch a glimpse of them as they arrive and take off from the airport, but, while they're there, they will be out of public sight.

Richard Mayne, Head of Air Traffic Services at Jersey Airport, explained: “Although there is no official display in Jersey this year, our air traffic controllers will continue to provide assistance and support to our colleagues in Guernsey in facilitating its display on Thursday morning as we control Channel Islands Air Space.

"Despite it only being a brief stop-over it’s always exciting to see the Reds in Jersey and of course there are plenty of vantage points towards the north-west of the Island for anyone who wishes to view the Reds Arrows as they head out to take part in Guernsey’s air display."

Those living near the airport are reminded there will be loud noise as the aircraft fly over on Wednesday and Thursday.