The iconic Red Arrows are set to dazzle the skies over East Anglia today after a last-minute cancellation of their Saturday display due to poor weather.
On July 26, 2025, the much-anticipated flypast by the Royal Air Force's renowned aerobatic team was called off just 15 minutes before it was scheduled to take off. Red 10, the safety supervisor for the flight, cited "deteriorating conditions" as the primary reason for the cancellation, emphasizing that safety remains paramount. Organizers expressed gratitude for the audience's support despite the setback and hoped for better British weather the following day.
But the wait is over. The Red Arrows are scheduled to take off from RAF Mildenhall, a Suffolk airbase, at precisely 2.47pm today, Sunday, July 27, 2025. Their flight path will take them near Newmarket at 2.49pm, then east of Eye at 2.57pm, before they perform their much-anticipated display at the Old Buckenham Airshow in Norfolk at 3pm.
Following their performance, the team will continue northwards, with spectators potentially catching glimpses of the planes north of Hingham around 3.25pm. The Red Arrows are expected to return to their base at RAF Waddington by 3.47pm.
The Old Buckenham Airshow, a highlight in the regional calendar, was left with a partial lineup on Saturday after the cancellation. Organizers managed to showcase more than half of the planned acts, but the absence of the Red Arrows was felt keenly by airshow enthusiasts.
Adding to the day's aerial excitement, the UK's only flying Lancaster Bomber is also scheduled to make appearances over three Suffolk events in Bury St Edmunds, Felixstowe, and Ipswich. This historic aircraft’s presence complements the modern spectacle of the Red Arrows, offering a rich blend of aviation heritage and contemporary prowess.
The Red Arrows, known officially as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, have long been a symbol of British precision and skill in the skies. Their displays are eagerly awaited across the country, with fans often lining up hours in advance to witness their intricate formations and breathtaking maneuvers.
Saturday’s cancellation was a disappointment, but the decision underscored the team’s commitment to safety above all else. Red 10’s statement on social media reassured the public, saying, "Safety is paramount and just announced by Red 10." The organizers echoed this sentiment, thanking supporters for their understanding and promising a thrilling show the following day.
Today’s schedule offers a packed itinerary for aviation fans and casual observers alike. The precise timings mean that those in Suffolk and Norfolk can plan to catch the Red Arrows as they streak across the sky. From their departure at RAF Mildenhall, a key Royal Air Force station, through their flypast near Newmarket and east of Eye, culminating in the Old Buckenham display, the team’s route is designed to maximize visibility and impact.
The return journey north of Hingham offers a final opportunity for those who missed the airshow itself to witness the Red Arrows in action. Their homecoming at RAF Waddington marks the end of a busy day, but the memories created will last much longer for those lucky enough to see them.
Meanwhile, the Lancaster Bomber’s appearances at events in Bury St Edmunds, Felixstowe, and Ipswich provide a nostalgic counterpoint to the Red Arrows’ high-speed aerobatics. As the only flying example of its kind in the UK, the Lancaster carries a deep historical significance, reminding audiences of the bravery and engineering feats of World War II.
Together, these aerial displays celebrate the rich tapestry of British aviation history and showcase the skill and dedication of the Royal Air Force. For many in the region, today’s events are not just about spectacular flying but also about community, heritage, and national pride.
Weather permitting, the skies over East Anglia will be alive with the roar of engines and the flash of red, white, and blue smoke trails, painting a vivid picture of British excellence in the air. After the disappointment of Saturday, the anticipation has only grown, making today’s performances all the more special.
As the Red Arrows take to the sky from RAF Mildenhall at 2.47pm, thousands of eyes will be turned upward, ready to witness one of the most iconic sights in British aviation. Their journey over Newmarket, Eye, and then the Old Buckenham Airshow promises to be a highlight of the summer, drawing crowds and capturing imaginations.
With the Lancaster Bomber’s historic flights complementing the modern spectacle, today’s air events offer something for everyone, from aviation aficionados to families seeking an unforgettable day out.
In the end, the decision to postpone Saturday’s flypast was a reminder that even the most thrilling displays depend on the unpredictable British weather. But with safety assured and the show rescheduled, the Red Arrows are ready to soar once more, reminding us all why they remain a beloved symbol of skill, precision, and national pride.
