The Royal Air Force’s renowned aerobatic squadron is set to achieve a landmark milestone during an upcoming flight over English territory.

This year marks an unprecedented chapter for the squadron, as it prepares to be led for the very first time by a female officer in its distinguished operational history.

Wing commander Sasha Nash has recently taken over command from wing commander Adam Collins, who has just finished a successful three-year period with the unit.

Commander Nash now oversees the 150-person team stationed at RAF Waddington and manages all facets of operations, encompassing performances, safety protocols, engineering requirements and comprehensive logistical arrangements.

Their scheduled appearance at the Midlands Air Festival at the conclusion of May will provide audiences with the initial chance to witness the team’s new display routine at a UK inland aviation event.

The Red Arrows, recognized as Britain’s premier military aerobatic formation, will appear alongside an impressive array of aircraft from across the United Kingdom and continental Europe, featuring the uncommon Polish Cold War-era MiG 17F jet fighter, the French Grumman Turbo Firecat making its inaugural fire-bombing demonstration on British soil by releasing in excess of 3,000 litres of water within a four-second window, and Team Raven, Britain’s biggest civilian display team.

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will present a Spitfire, Hurricane and notably a Douglas DC 3 Dakota, as the Lancaster aircraft currently undergoes extensive maintenance procedures.

Also featured will be the inaugural post-restoration appearance of the planet’s sole surviving Westland Whirlwind historic search and rescue helicopter, displayed alongside a massive Sea King aircraft.

The RAF’s Falcons parachute team will conduct drops throughout all three days of the event, with numerous additional aircraft rounding out the daily aerial presentations.

Complementing the aviation spectacle is an extensive hot air balloon gathering, featuring over 150 large multicolored balloons with numerous specialized character designs, the majority exceeding 100 feet in height, such as Smiley Scarecrow, Fly Alien, Busby the Kings Guardsman, Orient Express and Iggy the Friendly Dragon.

The festival commences on May 29th evening with the signature ‘Nightfire’ presentation, incorporating pyrotechnic aerial displays, balloon launches, Fireglow and an extensive firework conclusion.