Flying High with The Blades

PPG Refinish UK and Ireland has recently been working with the prestigious UK aerobatic team The Blades to help with their new plane colour scheme for 2018.

The Blades are renowned worldwide for flying precision close-formation aerobatics to the highest level during their dynamic and cutting edge display. They are a full-time civilian aerobatic display team made up entirely of former RAF Red Arrows pilots. In addition to flying at airshows and public events, The Blades are the only aerobatic display team in the world to operate as an airline, flying awe-inspiring air displays and providing a powerful platform for unique aerobatic flights, corporate days, flying events and experiences. The newly-painted Edge 540 planes encompass a ‘Best of British’ style with a Basecoat silver, Basecoat blue, Matt Clearcoat and direct gloss red. The overall design portrays a sporty, modern image, that incorporates the ever-evolving ethos of the team and Red Arrow heritage.

The Blades Ben Murphy comments; “We’re delighted how the plane looks in action - thanks to the new paint scheme. We are also impressed how the finish stands up to extreme conditions - high speed, high G Force, freezing conditions in the UK as well as warm conditions from competing in places like the UAE. We have had lots of great remarks from the public, but even better comments from the other teams - it’s nice to be the envy of the paddock!”

Newly appointed Blade 1 and Team Leader, Andy Evans, describes the new livery, commenting: ‘‘The new design gives the planes a great ‘Best of British’ look. The new colours have great impact and look amazing on the ground and in the air. The team and I look forward to displaying our new-look aircraft across the UK this summer.’’

The PPG team was on hand to ensure the paint process ran smoothly. PPG’s Ian Craig comments: “It was a pleasure to work with the Blades team and get involved to define the correct colours for them and to specify a paint system. The aeroplanes look fabulous and it’s great for PPG to be involved in something as exciting as this”.

We wish Ben and the Blades team all the best for the Red Bull Ace Master Class series this year!