General Chat

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-11997084

The iconic Harrier VSTOL will bid farewell today, with a formation of 16 aircraft flying from RAF Cottesmore. They will fly around the east of England including various Royal Air Force stations, the towns of Oakham, Stamford and Lincoln.

If you hear the roar of lots of Pegasus engines around your area, give them a wave, though they won't be able to see you. This magical aircraft has performed so well in places such as the Falklands, Iraq and more recently in Afghanistan. (Who can forget Brian Hanrahan 'counting them out and counting them back in' during the Falklands conflict. Without the Harriers the Falklands may well have belonged to Argentina now.)

I understand the flypast is very weather dependant - though it will be such a shame if they don't manage to get airborne.

Elisabeth

Well, the final flights took place. The link is for the practice yesterday, though I would think some film will appear for today's flight in due course.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0-Y2VKmraA

A very sad day for anyone interested in military aviation. No-one will see the Harrier take a bow at the end of an air display demonstration - unless it is from another country.

A piece of British aviation invention gone.

Hi Elizabeth,
I find it rather sad. They have to be one of the most majestic planes ever built. Air displays wont be the same without them.

Cath xx

Dear Ladies

Hello

Hope you are keeping well.

Another piece of history gone.

Similarly, the Royal Tournament was abolished in the 1990's.

Take gentle care
Very best wishes
xx