Wing Commander Jon Bond, the lead pilot of the Royal Air Force’s Red Arrows aerobatic team, has stepped down after a record-breaking eight seasons with the display team. Bond concluded his three-year tenure as Red 1, the lead position in the formation, on Friday.

Bond’s time with the Red Arrows was marked by numerous milestones, including performances for millions of spectators across the United Kingdom, successful tours to the United States and Canada, and the celebration of the team’s 60th anniversary season. He first joined the Red Arrows in 2018 after enlisting in the RAF in 2006 as a frontline Typhoon pilot.

During his tenure, Bond held various roles within the team, including leading the Synchro Pair, the pilots responsible for executing the signature heart-shaped formation during shows. A native of Essex, he expressed gratitude to fans, acknowledging their support whether watching live at airshows, following online, or observing performances from homes and public spaces.

In the 2024 season, Bond returned as Team Leader and led the team in reestablishing the nine-aircraft formation in recognition of the Red Arrows’ diamond anniversary year. While other officers have served with the team in mixed flying and supervisory roles over similar periods, Bond’s eight seasons exclusively as a display pilot occupying positions Red 1 through Red 9 are believed to set a new record.

The Red Arrows completed nearly 40 displays throughout 2026, concluding with a performance at the Imperial War Museum Duxford this month. Preparations for the 2027 season have already begun, with full winter training scheduled to start next month.