15 December 2014 New Officer Commanding for the Red Arrows A FORMER Red Arrows display pilot has returned to the team to become its commanding officer. Wing Commander Martin Higgins officially took over as Officer Commanding Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team (OC RAFAT) earlier today. He succeeds Wing Commander Neil Fraser, whose tour with the team has come to an end. OC RAFAT As Officer Commanding, Wg Cdr Higgins is responsible for the Squadron’s flying, engineering, administrative and safety matters. He ensures the Red Arrows operate in a safe and effective manner, during both practice and shows, but is not one of the nine display pilots. Wg Cdr Higgins said: “I was told in September that I had been selected and I’m absolutely delighted to take over the role. “The engineers, pilots and support staff produced an exceptional 50th Display Season in 2014 and we look forward to producing a safe and thrilling display for the British public in 2015”. OC RAFATWg Cdr Higgins was selected to be a Red Arrows pilot from 2004 to 2007, initially as Red 3 and then as Red 9 for his remaining time on the Team. Subsequently, he was posted to 111(F) Sqn to fly the Tornado F3, including a four-month tour in the Falkland Islands as Officer Commanding 1435 Flt. After a staff tour at Air Command on the Lightning II desk, he rejoined the Team as Red 5 for the 2012 season and was subsequently promoted into another staff tour in January 2013. The 43-year-old is originally from Bristol and joined the Royal Air Force in 1993. Wg Cdr Fraser is leaving the Squadron and Royal Air Force for a new career outside the military. OC RAFAT He said: “I am proud to have been in command of such an excellent team and representing the RAF and UK in displaying to such fantastic crowds. “I’m pleased to be handing over to Wg Cdr Higgins to take the Red Arrows into a fantastic future ahead”.
Posted on: Mon, 15 Dec 2014 20:03:39 +0000
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