The Blades

The Blades were a UK-based civilian aerobatic display team formed by former RAF Red Arrows pilots and operated by 2Excel Aviation from Sywell Aerodrome. Marketed as the world’s only “aerobatic airline,” the team uniquely combined four-ship precision displays with fare-paying passenger aerobatic flights under an airline operating certificate.

Displays showcased close formation, opposition passes and solo aerobatics with crisp commentary and on-board smoke. Beyond airshows, The Blades supported charity work with the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) and corporate aviation experiences.

Type & role. The team primarily flew Extra 300LP two-seat aerobatic monoplanes. The Extra family was designed by Walter Extra, with the first two-seat Extra 300 flying in 1988.

Construction & performance. Steel-tube fuselage with composite wing; Lycoming AEIO-540 (300 hp). The 300L/LP’s roll rate is around 400°/s and the type is stressed to roughly ±10 g (single-seat) / ±8 g (dual)—ideal for Unlimited-class manoeuvres and tight formation work.

Blades fit. Aircraft carried smoke systems and dual controls, enabling passenger aerobatic sorties during events and experience days.

Founded in 2005 by former Red Arrows leader Andy Offer and RAF Wg Cdr Chris Norton, The Blades debuted in 2006 with a four-ship Extra 300LP routine, later adding a 330SC for solo segments. The team performed widely across the UK and internationally, while also flying passengers at events—hence the “aerobatic airline” moniker.

Highlights included a recognised world record of 26 consecutive formation loops and appearances at high-profile events. On 23 January 2023, operator 2Excel Aviation announced that 2022 was the final full season for The Blades, citing business pressures and a changing airshow market.

• All display pilots were ex-RAF and had flown with the Red Arrows.
• The Blades operated under a civil AOC, offering fare-paying aerobatic flights to the public.
• Primary mount was the Extra 300LP; an Extra 330SC sometimes flew the solo role.
• They set a 26-loop world record in close formation at Sywell.
• The team supported RAFA charity initiatives alongside their displays.