Red Arrows to Celebrate Longleat Safari Park's 60th Anniversary with Fly-Past

Friday, 7 August 2026 05:30

The renowned RAF Red Arrows will conduct a special fly-past to mark the 60th anniversary of Longleat’s pioneering safari in Wiltshire, it has been announced.

The famous red, white and blue smoke from the jets flown by the aerobatic team will appear during the opening day of Longleat’s showcase aviation extravaganza, Icons of the Sky in September.

Scott Ashman, Head of Operations at Longleat, said: “We are thrilled the RAF Red Arrows have agreed to perform this special fly-past commemorating our 60th anniversary of opening the first drive-through safari outside of Africa.

“The RAF Red Arrows began displaying just a year before lions were first seen in the bluebells of the Wiltshire countryside at Longleat so it really is bringing two national treasures together.

“The team has conducted fly-pasts at many historic occasions from the opening of the 2012 Olympic Games in London to the Coronation of His Majesty The King in 2023 so to have them at Longleat is a terrific honour.”

The team will fly-past on Friday 11th September with the exact timing to be confirmed the day before.

Icons of the Sky runs from 11-13 September and features hot air balloons and a host of aircraft in the skies above the estate, with the dawn-to-dusk programme adding value to the day ticket.

Scott said: “Tickets are already selling fast and with the RAF Red Arrows now confirmed, we are sure it will be another fabulous way to celebrate our special birthday.”

For a full list of balloons, planes flying and to buy tickets, visit www.longleat.co.uk/events/icons-of-the-sky

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