It was with sad hearts that we learnt that on Saturday 20th August 2011 the Red Arrows aerobatic display team suffered their first fatal accident since 1978, and unfortunately Flight Lieutenant Jon Egging the pilot of Red 4 lost his life after crashing into the countryside close to Bournemouth Airport after seemingly ensuring his aircraft stayed clear of residential areas.

Deluxe Cruises would like to pay tribute to a man we never met, but with his team, earned our admiration and respect through his service to our country, and the great joy and entertainment he provided millions of us through his displays with the Red Arrows team – a fantastic British institution of which we are so proud.

Jon Egging had – like all Red Arrows pilots – a distinguished career as a pilot within the Royal Air Force, flying the Tucano, and the Hawk before becoming a qualified flying instructor for the Hawk aircraft. Prior to his selection for the Red Arrows, Jon was flying the Harrier GR9 with the IV(AC) Squadron.

Flight Lieutenant Egging joined the RAF in 2000 and had served in support of coalition forces in Afghanistan.

He started flying with the Red Arrows team in 2010 and died living his dream.

R.I.P Flight Lieutenant Jon Egging.  You bought joy to millions around the world and that will never be forgotten.

Our condolences go out to his wife Emma, Jon’s family, and the whole Red Arrows team.  Our thoughts are with you all.

You can view pictures of the Red Arrows at the Bournemouth Air festival by clicking here