RAF Leuchars Airshow 2004
The Royal Air Force Leuchars Airshow 2004 signalled the start of a major change in UK Air Defence. Four RAF Eurofighter Typhoons were present for the airshow marking the start of the changeover from the Tornado F3. The event also featured a role demonstration highlighting defensive and offensive air operations by the RAF frontline Tornado squadrons.
All photography by Paul Johnson/Flightline UK.
Early Autumn storms greeted the large RAF Leuchars Airshow crowd on Saturday 11th September. However, much of the planned flying did take place. Highlight was the the first appearance in a UK flying display of a 29(R) Squadron Eurofighter Typhoon T1 flown by the Squadron’s commanding officer, Wing Commander Jon Hitchcock. The RAF fighter theme continued with some classic jets including Golden Apple’s F-86A Sabre and a Hawker Hunter F58a from HHA. The RAF Red Arrows’ 40th Display Season was marked with a special formation flypast featuring the Folland Gnat T1 XR993 with the team ahead of their display.
A good selection of international displays attended including the return of the Luftwaffe’s Transall C-160D and the final UK flying display by the Royal Netherland Navy Westland SH-14D Lynx.
