Firebirds Aerobatic Display Team

About the Team

The Firebirds Display Team is a renowned British civilian aerobatic team based at Lec Aerodrome in Bognor Regis, West Sussex. Flying two Van’s RV-4 kit planes, they deliver thrilling aerobatic performances at numerous airshows across the UK and beyond. The team showcases their expertise through breathtaking close-formation maneuvers, impressive solo demonstrations, and dynamic 10-minute displays. Additionally, they offer visually stunning night performances enhanced with wingtip pyrotechnics and vibrant LED lighting, making their shows captivating both during the day and at sunset.

Team Overview

About the aircraft

The Van’s RV-4 is an American light homebuilt aircraft offered in kit form by Van’s Aircraft of Aurora, Oregon. Featuring a tandem seating configuration, it accommodates two occupants with the pilot positioned in the front seat and is specifically designed for sport aerobatics. The RV-4 boasts a new wing design with increased wingspan and area compared to its predecessor, supports a range of engines up to 180 hp including the Lycoming O-360, and is recognized for its capability in cross-country flights and extended range journeys.

Designed by Richard VanGrunsven in the mid-1970s as a two-seat evolution of the single-seat RV-3, the RV-4 prototype first took flight in August 1979. The RV series has grown to become the most popular kit-built aircraft globally, with the RV-4 ranking as the fourth most popular model as of April 2019. Over the years, the RV-4 has inspired several derivative designs, such as the RV-6 and RV-8, which address cockpit size constraints and build upon the successful design principles established by the RV-4.

Team History

Originally formed in 2015 by Andy Durston and Jon Gowdy under the name FireFlies, the team quickly gained recognition for their exceptional aerobatic skills and engaging performances. The FireFlies expanded their reach beyond the United Kingdom, performing in countries such as Poland, thereby establishing an international presence early on. In 2022, leadership transitioned to Nigel Reid and Jon Dodd, leading to a rebranding of the team as the Firebirds. Since its inception, the Firebirds Display Team has continued to grow in prominence, consistently delivering high-quality aerobatic shows and broadening their influence within both the national and international civilian aerobatic communities.

Did You Know?

• The Firebirds Display Team was originally known as the FireFlies before rebranding in 2022.
• The Firebirds perform both daytime shows and stunning night displays with pyrotechnics and LED lighting.
• The Van’s RV-4, which the Firebirds use, is designed for aerobatics and can accommodate a range of engines up to 180 hp.
• The RV-4 prototype first flew in August 1979 and has become one of the most popular kit-built aircraft in the world.
• The Firebirds Display Team is based at Lec Aerodrome, located in the picturesque seaside town of Bognor Regis on the south coast of England.