A Red Arrows pilot was fired following an alleged affair, while another pilot quit due to the team’s “toxic atmosphere.”
The display team is the face of the Royal Air Force in the eyes of the general public.
The top pilots in the industry do death-defying maneuvers, flying above crowds while generating flawless red, white, and blue smoke plumes.
They play at major British events, including air shows, festivals, and the most prominent royal ceremonies.
In April, however, Red 3 Squadron Leader Nick Critchell challenged Red 1 Team Leader Tom Bould, 41, according to The Sun.
Critchell, 36, was said to have quit due to a “toxic atmosphere” while training in Croatia and Greece, but the RAF stated that he departed for “personal reasons to pursue a new career opportunity.”
After being accused of having an affair with a female coworker, Flight Lieutenant Will Cambridge was suspended.
The Red Two Flight In January, Lieutenant Damo Green departed for personal reasons.
A representative for the RAF said that “the changes” were “for both personal and professional reasons” and that the organization would “take action if misconduct is confirmed.”
MailOnline has sought comment from the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
An ex-pilot said, “This is a catastrophe for the RAF.” The Red Arrows are their public face, and the public adores them; nevertheless, the public is unaware of what is occurring behind the scenes. There is something really terrible about this squad. Flying with the Red Arrows should be the pinnacle of a pilot’s career, yet they have lost three pilots this year. The hierarchy must inquire why?
There are excellent individuals attempting to remedy the situation, but it is a miserable place.
It follows the revelation that the RAF was examining reports of drinking by the Red Arrows.
According to sources, one pilot was ordered home from Greece, where the renowned aerobatic team was practicing at the time.
An source added, “There is a massive investigation on behind the scenes.” It relates to drinking and improper behavior suspicions. The chief of the RAF is directly engaged in the investigation of the Red Arrows.
