2010 Hawk Display work up

Since well before the final air show of 2009, the Hawk Display Team has been extremely busy behind the scenes in preparation for the 2010 season. Work began back when the 2010 team members were selected by the Officer Commanding No. 208(R) Squadron, Wing Commander Jamie Hunter.

"Choosing the right people is essential to the success of the Hawk Display" explains Wing Commander Hunter. "Clearly it is vital to select the best pilot to fly the display itself but equally important is the selection of the supervisory, administrative and engineering support team members. Not only do they need to be absolutely professional in their primary role but they need to give up a large amount of their spare time in order to represent the Royal Air Force at air show venues all over the world".

Eligible pilots were invited to apply for the job of Display Pilot back in August. The applicants were reviewed by OC 208 and he selected a shortlist of just two to go forward to the 'fly-off'. Both candidates flew an aerobatic sequence and were interviewed by OC 208 Sqn and The Station Commander of 4FTS, RAF Valley. Flt Lt Tom Saunders was announced as the 2010 Hawk Display Pilot on 17 September 2009 shortly followed by the rest of the Display team members. Find out more about the team here.

One of the first tasks was to start designing the new paint scheme for the 2010 jet. "The 2009 paint scheme was such a hit" explains Tom Saunders. "The pressure is really on to come up with a design which is as good as or better than this year's!".

The Hawk Display is one of the only display teams which is able to have a special paint scheme each year and it is a special priviledge for the Display Pilot to be able to design his own aircraft. "I feel very lucky to be able to choose my own paint scheme" says Tom, "but it has been very difficult to come up with a design which is eye-catching and original whilst retaining a recognisable theme. The Hawk Display has been going for many years and we have seen many different schemes. The hardest part has been finding something new".

There are many significant anniversaries in 2010 including the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain but it has been decided that The Hawk Display paint scheme will commemorate 50 years since the formation of number 4 Flying Training School (4FTS) at RAF Valley. Find out about the history of 4FTS here. The paint scheme design has now been finished and is currently undergoing an approval process by RAF bosses and the Camouflage Working Group which ensures that it is a safe and appropriate design. Tom says: "I am extremely pleased with the design we have come up with and can't wait to see my display jets painted up!". The jets usually go into the paint shop mid january so the team hope to publish the design very soon.