Red Arrows Cancel Flypast Over Prague

The Red Arrows, the Royal Air Force's aerobatic display team, have cancelled their planned flypast over Prague in their BAE Hawk T1 jets. The Czech Army announced the news on its website on Thursday.

"Due to current operational and organisational circumstances, as well as the schedule of their visit to Czechia, the Red Arrows have decided to cancel the planned flypast. The main part of their visit remains their participation in NATO Days and Czech Air Force Days, where the Red Arrows will present their flying display to spectators," the Czech Army stated.

"We are sorry that we won't get to see them over Prague this time. Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to seeing everyone at Leoš Janáček Airport in Ostrava," the statement added.

What the Planned Route Looked Like

According to the original plan, the formation was to approach Prague from the north. Above Václav Havel Airport in Ruzyně, the jets were set to form up into an arrow shape, test their smoke effects, then skirt the western edge of the city before heading south. Shortly after 2 PM, the team was scheduled to fly over Charles Bridge in the heart of the Czech capital.

A year ago, the British aerobatic team was escorted over Prague by two Czech JAS-39 Gripen fighter jets. That joint flight over the city centre, complete with coloured smoke trails, marked Czech Air Force Day and the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The Red Arrows also went on to perform for crowds at NATO Days in Mošnov last year.

Europe's Largest Security Showcase

NATO Days is considered the largest security demonstration in Europe. Admission is free, and in some years the event has drawn more than 200,000 visitors. This year, NATO Days will take place on Saturday and Sunday, 19–20 September, at Leoš Janáček Airport in Ostrava.

Source: novinky.cz