Swindonians are eagerly awaiting a remarkable flypast as part of the retirement tribute to the legendary RAF Hercules aircraft. As three C-130s take to the skies, the tour will include several locations in the UK, before culminating in their return to Brize Norton.
Departing from Brize Norton at 10:00, the flypast will traverse various regions of the country, heading towards Swindon between 16:30 and 16:40, so make sure to keep your eyes on the skies during that period.
The Hercules has supported UK military and humanitarian missions all over the world, including the recent evacuations from Sudan and Afghanistan.
The Hercules’ retirement also marks the end of an era for the esteemed 47 Squadron, which has been closely associated with the aircraft for many years. The squadron’s contributions and sacrifices will be honoured as part of the flypast, adding a poignant touch to the occasion.
Make sure to keep an eye on the skies as the Hercules grace Swindon with their presence.
Here is a breakdown of the flypast timings:
- 10:00 – Depart RAF Brize Norton
- 10:25 – National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas
- 10:34 – RAF Cosford
- 11:22 – RAF Valley
- 11:48 – FS Aldergrove
- 12:51 – RAF Lossiemouth (accompanied by a Typhoon escort)
- 14:08 – RAF Leeming
- 14:10 – RAF Topcliffe
- 14:23 – Beverley
- 14:35 – RAF Waddington
- 14:38 – RAF College Cranwell
- 14:58 – Cambridge Airport
- 15:04 – RAF Mildenhall
- 15:15 – Colchester Garrison
- 16:22 – MOD Boscombe Down
- 16:25 – Salisbury Plain (West Down Camp)
- 16:32 – MOD Lyneham
- 16:36 – Royal Wootton Bassett
- 16:39 – Defence Academy of the UK, Shrivenham
- 16:43 – Dalton Barracks, Abingdon
- 16:51 – RAF Halton
- 16:55 – RAF High Wycombe
- 17:05 – RAF Brize Norton
