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Inside Red Arrows cockpit for New York flypast

The Red Arrows joined a flypast over New York to mark 250 years of American independence earlier.

The RAF aerobatic team trailed red, white and blue smoke - arranged to depict the US flag - above the Hudson River, with Manhattan's skyscrapers providing a spectacular backdrop.

Wing Cdr Jon Bond, who led the team's formation, said: "Flying over New York, surrounded by so many iconic landmarks and famous locations on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of American independence, is a huge honour."

He added the invitation underlines the "enduring relationship" between the UK and US.

He added: "It has been fantastic to bring the Red Arrows' signature red, white and blue colours to this special occasion and celebrate the 4th of July with the American people and all those watching."

The Red Arrows - based at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire - are carrying out a month-long tour of the United States to mark America 250.

Saturday's flypast involved more than 150 other aircraft from around the world.

Called Operation Eagle Hawk, the Red Arrows' visit includes performances in New York, Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Maine, Maryland and Michigan.

Credits: MoD/Crown Copyright 2026 (cockpit video) and Dan Thomas

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