A report's found sexual harassment was 'widespread and normalised' in the Red Arrows display team
The head of the Royal Air Force says he's 'appalled'
Last updated 1st Nov 2023
An inquiry into the Red Arrows has found that unlawful harassment of women was 'highly likely' with predatory behaviour within the team widespread and 'normalised'.
The findings come from a non-statutory inquiry that looked into the behaviour of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team.
The findings said that women were viewed as 'property' of the squadron and that behaviour was so prevalent that servicewomen would club together to try and protect each other from unwanted advances.
The 76-page report also details incidents of bullying and an alcohol-focused culture.
The inquiry was commissioned in December 2021 after three women made serious allegations which dated back to 2017 - it was concluded last summer but led to a further formal investigation into wider management of the Squadron.
The report added that it was highly likely women had to deal with unwanted physical contact, unwanted sexual text messages, comments about their appearance and invitations to have sex.
Two incidents of exposure of genitals were also reported to the inquiry review team.
The report also said that women would go to social situations as a group and would limit the amount of alcohol they drank.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, the head of the Royal Air Force, said he was "appalled" at what had been uncovered and offered his "unreserved apologies" - he also says the Red arrows won't be disbanded.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton, Chief of the Air Staff said:
"I want first to say that I am sorry and offer my unreserved apologies to any individuals that were subjected to unacceptable behaviours during their association with the Red Arrows, particularly the three women who felt they had no option but to raise their complaints directly with my predecessor.
"The reports show that during the period investigated, unacceptable behaviours were widespread and 'normalised' on the Red Arrows. These included sexual harassment, bullying and an alcohol-focused culture.
"The situation was compounded by a 'bystander culture', meaning people did not challenge what was happening. The behaviours described by witnesses in the reports have no place in the Royal Air Force - or anywhere else. The findings of the investigations are clear. Actions have been taken against a number of individuals, up to and including dismissal from the Service.
"I was appalled when I read the investigations' findings. The behaviour of a minority of individuals has harmed the Squadron's reputation and that of the Royal Air Force. Like my predecessor, I am intent on rebuilding public trust in one of our highest profile units. I know that the current team is working hard to do just that.
"The leadership, air and ground crews of the Red Arrows have undergone many changes since the period covered by the investigations, with few still serving on the Squadron from that time. I have confidence in the command and people of the current Squadron.
"More broadly, I would like to make it very clear today that where appropriate, I will not hesitate to use the most severe sanctions available to me to deal with those whose behaviour harms others."