Red Arrows' new team leader takes the controls

The new team leader of the RAF's Red Arrows aerobatic display team has described his appointment as a "tremendous honour".

Squadron Leader James Turner, a former frontline Typhoon pilot, has taken up the role of Red 1, succeeding Wing Commander Jon Bond.

He returns to the aerobatic team after previously flying with the Reds between 2020 and 2023.

As Red 1, he will oversee the Red Arrows' annual display programme, from designing the aerobatic routine and leading training to commanding the team in the air.

Sqn Ldr Turner said the scale of the responsibility could be daunting.

He said: "You're leading a formation in which everyone relies on one another, while also looking after a team with a busy programme and a very public role."

However, he added: "Having spent four seasons with the team, I know what a privilege it is to wear the red suit and represent the Royal Air Force.

"Some of my strongest memories are of meeting people at displays and hearing what the Red Arrows meant to them. Keeping that connection with the public matters enormously.

"Above all, I am excited about working with the people who make the Red Arrows what they are."

Sqn Ldr Turner, who is originally from Hertfordshire and joined the RAF in 2006, becomes the 25th leader of the team since its formation in 1964.

Wg Cdr Bond, who was Red 1 for the past three years, bowed out on Friday.

He said there would "always be a place" for the aerobatic team, amid talks over the replacement of the ageing jets.

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