Farewell Warhorse!
The RAF is to retire its fleet of 14 C-130J 'Hercules' aircraft, at the end of the month. This decision has unleashed much controversy, but the hierarchy and the powers-that-be are resolute in saying the Airbus A-400M 'Atlas' is mission tested and more capable as a replacement. The RAF ordered 22 A-400M's and all 22 have been delivered.
A farewell flypast took place yesterday 14 June, covering territory and airbases over all four nations of the UK. My pictures show the flypast at RAF Waddington at 14.35 local. The flight of three RAF Hercules overflew the runway at 250ft AGL, at 200 knots, and away into the afternoon sun ...
The view from the overflow parking area towards the already full designated viewing area. Left centre the eastern perimeter of the airbase is just visible.
Approaching RAF Waddington
Leading is 'sticker tail' denoting 56 years of RAF service
Into the afternoon sun. In the foreground is Crash gate No 2 on the A15 main road.