Coronavirus: Red Arrows Cancel Overseas Training

The Red Arrows' overseas training has been cancelled over the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The RAF's aerobatic team annually deploys overseas on Exercise Springhawk, giving pilots the chance to perfect their skills in better weather conditions ahead of the display season.

In a statement on its website, the RAF said the decision had been made in line with current restrictions surrounding COVID-19.

"While this is usually done to guarantee better weather, continuity of highly-skilled flying practice and to accelerate the team's preparedness for a busy season, 2020 will clearly not be a normal campaign," the RAF said in a statement.

"It is the intention of the RAF that the Red Arrows will maintain their capabilities, when the current situation enables the team to do so."

Air shows, among other large events, have already been called off over the coronavirus outbreak.

The Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford was cancelled last week, while the Royal Navy's International Air Day at RNAS Yeovilton was called off on Monday.

Meanwhile, the 2020 RAF Cosford Air Show has been postponed.

Cover image: Library picture of the Red Arrows flying over Silverstone (Picture: Red Arrows).