Above: Air Officer Commanding 22 (Training) Group, Air Vice-Marshal Warren James (right) receives the APA award from Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier and APA Chairman Mark Roberts.
 
The award, presented at the APA’s annual industry dinner in the House of Commons recognised the iconic fast jet display team’s exceptional contribution to promoting Britain. Air Officer Commanding 22 (Training) Group, Air Vice-Marshal Warren James accepted the award on behalf of the Red Arrows.

 
APA President Air Marshal (Ret’d) Greg Bagwell said: “The Red Arrows are the world’s premier aerobatic display team and act as excellent ambassadors for Britain. They have been delighting and inspiring crowds in the UK and around the globe for the last 52 years, but this award is specifically for the ground breaking and highly successful Middle East and Asia Pacific tour they undertook in the Autumn of last year.”
 
In part, supporting the Government’s Britain’s GREAT campaign, the tour included over 20 displays and numerous flypasts, and provided an exceptional showcase for the RAF, the UK and air power.  The tour took in countries such as China, which saw the team perform there for the first time, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, India and others, and their outstanding performances drew considerable praise. 
 
The APA Award is given annually to the Fleet Air Arm, RAF, or Army Air Corps individual, team, unit or formation that has made a significant and demonstrable contribution to improving the understanding, importance and relevance of air power to the UK.
 
The Red Arrows are currently gearing up for an extremely high profile season in 2018 when they will be at the forefront as the RAF celebrates its centenary.
 
“Two thousand and eighteen will be an incredibly significant year for the RAF as it celebrates its centenary and we will be looking to play our part through the delivery of major events such as the Air Power Conference in London next July,” the APA President told dinner guests.
 
As the APA continues to grow, more than 175 members and guests, including senior military personnel and leaders from across industry, attended the annual dinner in the Palace of Westminster. Principal guest was the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier.