THE Red Arrows display in Lyme Regis has been cancelled, organisers have regrettably announced.
The Royal Air Force (RAF) has confirmed today (Saturday) that the aerobatic team’s delayed return to the United Kingdom from North America means they will not be able to perform in Lyme Regis.
The Red Arrows were due to display over the skies of Lyme on Sunday 16 August as part of Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week, also celebrating the 200th anniversary of a lifeboat in the town.
Display organiser Lyme Regis Town Council has expressed its disappointment at the cancellation but understands the RAF’s operational requirements are paramount.
Due to a prolonged period of poor weather in the north-eastern regions of Canada, the team’s return from a tour of the United States as part of Operation Eagle Hawk was postponed last week.
It is now anticipated this multi-leg Atlantic crossing will be able to begin again from late next week based on more favourable conditions.
The revised timeline means the Red Arrows will not be in a position to complete three of its performances, including at Lyme Regis, Eastbourne International Airshow and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Wing Commander Sasha Nash, Officer Commanding RAF Aerobatic Team, said: “We are very sorry the Red Arrows cannot participate at these events and we are grateful to organisers and communities for their understanding.
“Every effort is being made to ensure the Red Arrows can recommence the busy display season as soon as possible.
“However, safety is the only factor that will determine the timing of the team’s return from Canada.”
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week otherwise remains on as scheduled, supported by the RAF.
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is carrying out flypasts on Friday 21 and Saturday 22 August, as well as a Spitfires aerial display on Wednesday 19 August at 6pm.
The mayor of Lyme Regis, Cllr Philip Evans said: “Having brought the Red Arrows to Lyme for the first time in 1974 and subsequently again in 2016/17, I was distraught to learn that the RAF’s crack aerobatic team had withdrawn from their scheduled appearance on Sunday 16 August to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Lyme Lifeboat.
“Lyme Regis Town Council had agreed to contribute £10,000 towards the overall cost of securing a visit by the Arrows and thanks to the generosity of the people Lyme and district, the full amount had been raised following the reforming of the Lyme Regis Red Arrows 100 Club. We will, of course, refund all the donations received.
“This is a particular disappointment for the RNLI as the Red Arrows display would have got this year’s Lifeboat Week off to a flying start.
“We will be going all out to try a secure a visit from the Arrows next year and I would like to thank the town council staff for all the hard work they have put in to rebuild the 40-year relationship between Lyme and the Red Arrows.”
The Red Arrows’ single-engine Hawk aircraft have a limited range and cannot carry out air-to-air refuelling.
This means crossing the Atlantic – with its complex weather patterns – has to be done in stages and is made more complicated with only a small number of diversion airfields available.
Critical to this trail is having the correct support aircraft, including search-and-rescue cover and those carrying essential technical equipment, in the right place, at the right time.
A reasonable buffer window, to help mitigate potential delays for the Atlantic return, was always factored into the planning of Operation Eagle Hawk based on vast experience gained during previous crossings safely carried out in 2019 and 2024.
However, the weather in north-east Canada has been particularly challenging.
Scheduled engineering on the Hawks, which was due to take place in the UK, was carried out by team personnel during the Red Arrows’ stay at CFB Goose Bay to make best use of time.
This is aimed at helping the return to the 2026 programme to be as expedient and efficient as possible when the jets land back in the UK.
The entire Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team thanks those aviation fans who have sent well wishes and messages of support – the Red Arrows are focused on making a safe return and displaying for individuals and families across the remainder of the summer season.