RAF King Air
The Royal Air Force King Air Display Team have released the following statement regarding the cancellation of their 2016 Flying Display Season
“The Royal Air Force’s King Air Display Team is to withdraw from the 2016 Flying Display Circuit after safety issues were identified while operating the aircraft in some of the planned display manoeuvres.
“All Royal Air Force flying display teams go through rigorous safety checks and training while preparing to receive Public Display Authority before each flying display season. During the King Air’s work-up for the 2016 season an issue was discovered while operating the aircraft under reduced g-loading that could have led to problems operating the aircraft safely during some planned display manoeuvres. The King Air remains safe to operate in normal flight, and will continue to be used in flying training.
“An RAF spokesman said: “Safety is always our first concern, and we took this precautionary decision following extensive discussions with the manufacturer and detailed technical and air safety analyses. Although we’re disappointed to have had to cancel the King Air Display Team’s season, we know airshow visitors will appreciate that the decision reflects the RAF’s professionalism and strict approach to air safety. Members of the public will still be able to meet the Team at static displays at airshows across the UK and in Europe this year to learn more about exciting RAF careers, and to meet our pilots and weapon system operators.”
“The Beech King Air B200 is a twin-engine aircraft which has been in RAF service since 2004 to provide advanced multi-engine flying training.”
We are disappointed but safety is paramount.
