Members of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, have visited Southern China this week…
In Zhuhai Airshow, the Red Arrows met with Chinese and UK companies from aerospace and aviation industry, and toured the UK Pavilion at Airshow exhibition hall. The Red Arrows also enjoyed an aerial display by their Chinese counterparts, the PLA’s Bayi Aerobatic Team, before having the chance to meet them after their performance.
In Shenzhen, British Consul-General in Guangzhou Ms Karen Maddocks accompanied the four-strong Red Arrows team, including Wing Commander Andrew Keith and Flight Lieutenant Alicia Mason, to visit DJI, the world’s largest consumer drones manufacturer. The Red Arrows took the opportunity to try out DJI’s technology for themselves, including one drone controlled by hand movements and face recognition.
The delegation also visited the Shenzhen Airlines’ flight training centre and tested the UK-made flight simulators. Pilots from the UK and China also shared ideas on flight training and teamwork. Shenzhen Airlines has just launched their inaugural flight from Shenzhen to London and the visit is expected to promote further opportunities for potential UK-China collaboration in the civil aviation sector.
Wing Commander Andrew Keith, Officer Commanding of the Red Arrows, said: “The Red Arrows team is excited about coming back to Zhuhai Airshow and to visit the vibrant city of Shenzhen. The visit showcases the strong links between the UK and China and underlines how aviation is a global language.”
The Red Arrows also participated in the Be Yourself: Pledge for Progress campaign hosted by the British Consulate in Shenzhen Bay Club, to talk about how organisations support women’s empowerment. Female member of the Red Arrows team, Flight Lieutenant and Engineering Officer Alicia Mason said:
“I’m honoured to be invited to support the UK Government’s Be Yourself Campaign in China. All roles in the Red Arrows are open to both men and women, and I’m proud to represent the Red Arrows to talk about our open and diverse culture.”
