Flt Lt Jon Egging was just 33 years old and completed Elementary Flying Training with his University Air Squadron before joining the Royal Air Force in 2000. Having been streamed for fast jet training, Jon flew the Tucano and Hawk before selection as a 'Creamie' which saw him working as a Qualified Flying Instructor on the Hawk at RAF Valley where he taught both students and instructors. Jon then went on to serve with IV(AC) Squadron flying the Harrier GR9 at RAF Cottesmore.
During his time on the Harrier Jon flew operational sorties in support of coalition ground forces in Afghanistan and also took part in exercises in the United Kingdom and America which included a spell operating from HMS Illustrious, flying training missions off the UK coastline.
He went on to become the Squadron’s Qualified Flying Instructor during his last year on 'Happy IV', before, in April 2010, making the transition to teach on the Harrier Operational Conversion Unit, based at RAF Wittering.
Jon was selected for the Red Arrows ahead of the 2011 season and, as the official statement released following yesterday’s accident says, was chosen to fly in the Red 4 slot, on the right hand outside of the famous Diamond Nine formation - an accolade in itself with this being the most demanding position allocated to a first year pilot.
It goes on to say that throughout his winter training and the display season to date, his professionalism, skill and humility have shone through.
It is clearly far too early to speculate on the reasons behind the accident in which Jon lost his life but it has brought in to focus the strength of feeling that so many hold for the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team and our armed forces in general.
It also of course serves to remind us all of the inherent risk that casts a perpetual shadow over the world of aviation, and display flying in particular.
That someone as young and talented as Jon Egging should make the ultimate sacrifice while striving to entertain the Great British public should not be overlooked or forgotten. This was not an operational sortie or a wartime scenario, nor even an actual display, this was the Red Arrows returning to its weekend base having done what the Team does better than anyone else in the business, namely thrilling thousands of spectators in the name of the Royal Air Force and Great Britain itself.
That they will continue to do so, when the time is right of course, should be beyond question.
All that remains is for Global Aviation Resource to offer its sincere condolences to Jon’s family, friends and colleagues at this desperately sad time. The world is a poorer place without him.
2011-08-22 - John Rowe
Well written and presented Gareth. Sums up exactly how many of us were feeling this weekend. My sincere condolences to his family, colleagues and friends.
2011-08-22 - John Renton
Well said Gareth, but we all wish that your fine tribute had not been necessary.
2011-08-22 - Anni
A really lovely and well written report, so sad to have lost one of our great Red Arrows, may he rest in peace, condolences to his family, and to the rest of the team
2011-08-22 - Jason Grant
Another excellent report Gareth, it's such a shame it's an obituary to one we all feel so close to. RIP Flt Lt Jon Egging.
2011-08-21 - Martin Wintermeyer
Spot on as usual Gareth. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends and, of course, with the extended family of the team.
2011-08-21 - Robert Howe
Well written, not only have we lost a hero but an exceptional display pilot, the aviation world is a poorer place without him. Rest in peace and teach the angels to soar. Smoke on ...... GO!
2011-08-21 - Bill Ramsey
Well-spoken Gareth. I would like to add my own condolences to Jon's wife and family if I might. My thoughts also go out to Ben and the rest of the Team - I know the dark place they must be in right now.
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