RAF News

RAF Aviators prepare for Her Majesty The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Pageant

Aviators practise on parade, with rifles.

Over 300 Royal Air Force Aviators have been preparing for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee at RAF Halton in advance of the Pageant at Buckingham Palace this weekend.

Aviators from around the UK and overseas territories, have been practicing their drill routines alongside members of the Queen’s Colour Squadron and RAF Musicians at the RAF station in Buckinghamshire.

Aviators practise on parade.

"Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force is immensely proud to form a key part in the celebrations for Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee. Royal Air Force Halton personnel have been refreshing Aviators from across the Service over the last few days so that they continue to meet the highest standards of Parade readiness. To contribute to the Flypast planned for 2 June, on Sunday 5 June the Royal Air Force will be honoured to pay tribute on the ground to our Monarch, who has served the country and supported the Royal Air Force for the past 70 years."

Group Captain Startup
Station Commander, RAF Halton

The RAF Central Band also performed the new pageant composition, titled 'For Queen & Country' as well as a rendition of 'Sweet Caroline,' which has become an internet sensation surrounding the Jubilee.

RAF Musicians practise on parade, with instruments.

In addition to the traditional Trooping the Colour military display to celebrate The Queen’s Official Birthday, members of the UK Armed Forces will be on parade throughout the jubilee weekend to mark her 70 years as sovereign and head of the Armed Forces.

RAF Musicians practise on parade, with instruments.

The preparations at Halton followed the flypast rehearsal at RAF College Cranwell last week and were mirrored by similar work being done by the Royal Navy and British Army to prepare for the  Platinum Jubilee. The marching detachment also held an early morning practice on Tuesday 31 May outside Buckingham Palace.

Aviators practise on parade, with rifles.

Read more about the RAF's celebrations for Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee