Xiangzhou District, Zhuhai

The Royal Air Force Aerobatics Team, the Red Arrows -- one of the world's premier display teams -- is awaiting only final approval for a debut at the 11th China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition. Airshow China, as it’s commonly called, is to open Nov 1 at the Zhuhai Airshow Center in Jinwan District.

Accompanied by an RAF officer from the United Kingdom embassy in Beijing, an advance team of the Red Arrows visited Zhuhai on June 27-30, surveying facilities and discussing safety issues for the aerobatic displays.

The team is set to bring 12 Hawk fast-jets from its base in Lincolnshire for a 26-minute flight demonstration.

Red Arrows perform [Photo / courtesy raf.mod.uk]

Should it receive a green light from the UK government, the maiden presence of the Red Arrows will be a major breakthrough for Airshow China, marking the successful signup of a national aerial team from a core European country. 

The advanced team was briefed on air traffic control systems of Zhuhai Airport and safeguard applied for each air show over the years. The parties held in-depth discussions concerning performances and safety.

Spaghetti Break [Photo / courtesy raf.mod.uk]

Red Arrows team leader MJ Higgins said he expects to attend the show and was confident of presenting a world-class flight performance with the cooperation and safeguarding of the Civil Aviation Zhuhai Air Traffic Control Station. 

This year’s air show is expected to display 130 aircraft from 42 countries and regions, setting new records in scale and level. It will also showcase a group of star-quality military and civilian aircraft such as the SU35 and the Airbus A350.