Gnat Display Team

About the Team

The Gnat Display Team operates out of St Athan Airport in Wales, renowned for their expertise in showcasing classic jet aircraft. Established in 2008, the team has expanded its fleet to five Gnat jets, encompassing airworthy models, those undergoing restoration, and others in scheduled maintenance. Their performances typically feature two aircraft in formation, though they occasionally present three-ship formations or solo displays, adapting to the requirements of various airshows across the UK and Europe.

Comprising former military engineers and pilots, the team ensures meticulous maintenance and exceptional performance standards. The engineering members oversee the CAA-approved maintenance operations, ensuring each aircraft remains in optimal condition. Meanwhile, the pilots hold CAA Airshow Display Authorizations, enabling them to execute complex aerobatic maneuvers safely and efficiently. This combination of technical proficiency and skilled piloting has solidified the Gnat Display Team’s reputation as a premier act in the classic jet display circuit.

Operating under the aegis of The Heritage Aircraft Trust, a registered charity, the Gnat Display Team is dedicated to the preservation and presentation of historic aircraft. The trust’s mission emphasizes the conservation of these heritage assets for public education and enjoyment, aligning seamlessly with the team’s objectives. Through their dynamic displays, the Gnat Display Team not only entertains audiences but also fosters a deeper appreciation for aviation history and the enduring legacy of classic jets.

Team Overview

About the Gnat

The Folland Gnat is a British compact, swept-wing subsonic fighter aircraft developed and produced by Folland Aircraft in the mid-20th century. Conceived by designer W. E. W. Petter as an affordable light fighter, the Gnat was intended to offer a cost-effective alternative to larger, more expensive combat aircraft. Originating from the preceding Folland Midge prototype, the Gnat was developed in response to the British Air Ministry’s Operational Requirement OR.303. Its design emphasized simplicity and ease of maintenance, allowing construction and servicing without specialized tools, which made it particularly suitable for deployment in countries with less industrialized infrastructures. The airframe utilized a conventional metal stressed-skin structure with flush riveting, minimizing manufacturing complexity and costs.

Although the Royal Air Force (RAF) did not adopt the Gnat as a frontline fighter, it found significant use as a trainer aircraft, designated the Gnat T.1. The RAF’s famed Red Arrows aerobatic team employed the Gnat until it was eventually succeeded by the Hawker Siddeley Hawk. Internationally, the Gnat achieved notable success, particularly with the Indian Air Force, which became its largest operator and produced the aircraft under license via Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). India’s deployment of the Gnat in both combat and training roles demonstrated its versatility and performance, leading to the development of the improved HAL Ajeet variant. Additionally, Finland and Yugoslavia were among the export customers that utilized the Gnat in various capacities.

The Folland Gnat’s legacy extends beyond its operational use, influencing subsequent aircraft development efforts and NATO requirements for light fighters. Although further advanced versions, such as the supersonic Gnat Mk.5 and variable-geometry wing configurations, were proposed, these did not advance to the prototype stage due to limited interest and shifting defense priorities. Nonetheless, the Gnat’s emphasis on affordability, ease of maintenance, and operational flexibility left a lasting impact on light fighter design philosophies. Its role in training and aerobatic display, coupled with successful international deployments, cemented the Gnat’s place in aviation history as a pioneering light fighter and trainer aircraft.

Team History

The origins of the Gnat Display Team trace back to 2005, when three aviation enthusiasts jointly owned a single Gnat jet, G-RORI. In 2008, the acquisition of a second aircraft, G-TIMM, marked the formal establishment of the team at North Weald Airfield. This expansion enabled the development of pair formation flying routines, laying the groundwork for their official entry into the airshow circuit in 2009. From these initial displays, the team gained recognition for their precision and skill, steadily increasing both their aircraft inventory and their standing within the classic jet community.

A pivotal year for the team was 2014, characterized by significant milestones and enhanced display capabilities. The successful restoration of G-MOUR, a Gnat previously owned by David Gilmour, allowed the team to perform three-ship formations for the first time. This achievement coincided with the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team’s 50th Display Season, during which the Gnat Display Team played a prominent role at major events such as the RAF Waddington International Airshow and the Royal International Air Tattoo. The year concluded with an informal Open Day at their North Weald base, further cementing their engagement with aviation enthusiasts and the broader community.

Tragedy struck the Gnat Display Team in 2015, profoundly impacting the UK airshow landscape. On August 1st, one of the team's Gnat crashed during a display at CarFest, resulting in the loss of pilot Kevin Whyman. Shortly thereafter, on August 22nd, a Hawker Hunter crashed at the Shoreham Airshow, leading to multiple fatalities and injuries. This incident was among the deadliest airshow accidents in the United Kingdom’s history and led to a significant decline in classic jet displays nationwide. Despite these challenges, the Gnat Display Team demonstrated resilience, maintaining their operations and gradually resuming appearances. Beginning in 2024, they have initiated a cautious return to airshows, currently focusing on solo displays as they rebuild their presence and honor their enduring legacy.

Did You Know?

• The Folland Gnat was specifically engineered to be an affordable light fighter, prioritizing low purchase and operational costs without sacrificing essential combat capabilities.
• Although primarily a trainer, the Gnat gained fame in the United Kingdom as the aircraft used by the Royal Air Force’s prestigious Red Arrows aerobatic team until it was succeeded by the Hawker Siddeley Hawk.
• The Indian Air Force not only became the largest operator of the Gnat but also manufactured the aircraft under license through Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), further developing it into the improved HAL Ajeet variant.
• The Gnat’s design allowed for construction and maintenance without specialized tools, enabling easier deployment and servicing in countries with less developed industrial bases.
• The Gnat Trainer variant featured full pressurization, climate control, and an ejection seat, incorporating many features expected in standard fighter aircraft to effectively transition pilots to operational fighters.