It's always a shame to lose an airshow act, regardless of what it flies or what it does. The display circuit quite simply would not exist without the men and women prepared to put the time, effort and money in to entertaining the crowds that flock to shows across the UK and beyond.
To lose an act that flies five Hawker Hunters is a real blow though. The Hunter is a true British icon and to have a team that flew that many examples of the jet was a real boon and we should be thankful, I think, that the team managed to do so during 2011, the aircraft's 60th birthday year. That they will be missed there is no doubt at all.
"Well, after three years (starting with Strikemasters), numerous UK shows and two tours of the Middle East, we have decided to call it a day," Gerald Williams told me earlier today.
"The cost of operating so many Hunters and keeping them serviceable sadly meant that it just wasn't practical to continue.
"It's been really great while it lasted though, lots of fun. Most importantly, from what I've seen since the news broke that the Team wouldn't be carrying on, is that most people seemed to really enjoy what we did and I suppose, at the end of the day, that is all that really matters.
"While some of the aircraft may be sold (XE601 has already started a new life in France) I think you'll still see some of the guys displaying their jets in the UK this season so hopefully it won't be the last you've seen of the Team Viper Hunters.
"I would like to thank everyone who has supported Team Viper over the past three years.
"We couldn't have done it without the backing and encouragement of many others and we enjoyed every minute. I hope everyone else did too."
GAR has been fortunate enough to work quite closely with Team Viper over the past couple of years, with Karl's trip to Al Ain through to seeing the guys in training at RNAS Yeovilton. We would like to take the opportunity to thank them for their time and hospitality and you know what, I suspect that we might not have seen the last of Gerald Williams on the UK airshow scene. Watch this space.....
Thanks for everything Team Viper and we wish each and every one of you all the very best.
2012-01-12 - Stevie Beats
Will miss these amazing jets and their daring pilots. Job well done, thanks
2012-01-12 - Tony Exelby
Sad to see this Team disband, a great bunch of guys and a great show from a magnificent and beautiful machine.
Much missed in 2012.
2012-01-12 - Paul Newbold
Certainly will miss them. Was wondeful to see a formation of these classic aircraft and there was some great low flying as expected from the Hunter. All the best for the future guys.
2012-01-12 - Damien Burke
Sad to see the team go - one of my favourite acts in the last couple of years.
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