Red Arrows flypast for RAF chief is a ‘kick in the teeth’

A RED Arrows flypast for the outgoing Chief of the Air Staff who was in post while a toxic culture engulfed the squadron has been called a “kick in the teeth” by victims.

Personnel who were subjected to bullying and sexual assault while serving with the Red Arrows claim that Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston failed to get a handle on the problem while he was head of the RAF.

Last year, Sir Mike launched a nonstatutory inquiry after allegations of bullying, misogyny, assault, sexual harassment and drunkenness were reported within the team.

It resulted in the sacking of multiple members of the Red Arrows. However, a member of personnel who experienced such abuse said it was “a big deal for the Air Force” to hold the investigation, which showed up a “massive organisational issue”.

“But when it’s all said and done, you still get celebrated like nothing went on,” they said. “It’s a kick in the teeth.”

As part of the formal ceremony to mark the end of Sir Mike’s tenure in post, the RAF’s Aerobatics Team conducted a flypast as part of a transit to Fairford, Gloucestershire.

RAF sources said the flypast was “completely routine and appropriate”.