A bird struck Red 6 during a display at the Rhyl Air Show, shattering the plane’s window and exposing the pilot to the elements, requiring his colleague to lead him back to the ground.
Sunday’s Red Arrows performance was cut short after a mid-air accident with a bird smashed one of the jet’s windows.
After a weekend of fly-bys by Typhoon fighters and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, the world-famous aerial demonstration team concluded the Rhyl Air Show in north Wales.
Those in attendance reported hearing a “loud pop” from above, followed by Red 6’s separation from the group and descent to the ground.
It turned out that a bird had struck the cockpit window of the jet, shattering it and forcing the pilot to land with the assistance of a coworker.
According to the Daily Record, the event announcer stated over the public address system, “From what I can hear, it seems like a bird has struck the canopy… Typically, this indicates that the bird has penetrated the canopy and smashed it, so what he is truly hearing is the wind rushing through the canopy.
“That is my strongest hunch. If this is the case, it is highly crucial for Red 6 because they are listening to air traffic, but air traffic cannot hear them. This is why Seven is with him, and they will be guided down on his wing.
“The most crucial aspect is that it does not appear to have shut down the engine.”
The group’s commanding officer, David Montenegro, stated thereafter, “Steve, the pilot… is somewhat shocked, but thank you.
“His rapid efforts, executed with composure and accuracy with the aid of his coworkers, ensured a safe outcome.”
The remainder of the squadron abandoned their performance and returned to Hawarden airfield soon after landing clearance was granted.
The pilots reportedly landed to a “hero’s welcome” and were applauded as they exited their plane, according to the Daily Record.
