 Technical Capabilities
We pride ourselves on being a step ahead of the game.
Aircraft
The Blades' striking, high-performance aircraft are the choice of world champions. The Extra 300 is cleared to operate at +/-10G and has a power to weight ratio to rival a Formula 1 car. Over the past three years we have pioneered livery technology, enabling us to change the colour of the aircraft quickly to meet the requirements of our media partners.
Safety
As the world's only globally-accredited aerobatic airline, we comply with the most stringent safety standards in existence. Our aircraft are fitted with safety equipment not normally embodied on general aviation aircraft and we have a comprehensive range of technical, operational and legal measures in place. The Blades can legally fly any manoeuvre that the aircraft is capable of with passengers on board. We also have high levels of insurance cover. All in all, our passengers are in the safest of hands.
Camera System
We fly with the most advanced aviation filming capabilities in the world; each of our aircraft is equipped with six broadcast-quality 'bullet' TV cameras. These half inch chipset cameras are the camera of choice for the BBC and ITV for action and extreme sports and their pictures are recorded on the aircraft in miniDV format for maximum quality. The footage can also be beamed to the ground, live, through our unique and specially designed microwave live-link system. They have a broadcast range of over 20 miles and the flexibility to transmit across the full range of licensed and unlicensed TV bands. With a camera system controlled by military-style HOTAS (hands on throttle and stick) the pilots have become expert cameramen too, 'vision mixing' for you as they fly!
Audio System
Radio traffic and the in-cockpit intercom are recorded direct onto miniDV using voice-activated ‘hot mic’ and both are also broadcast to the ground down the live-link system. In doing this, the live-link system negates the need for the ground station to have a radio in order to hear what is being said in the aircraft. It also removes the crackle of VHF radios, giving unparalleled sound quality.
Dedicated Camera Aircraft
With six full-time pilots flying The Blades, all of whom are expert formation pilots, we can generate outstanding air-to-air images and films using a dedicated camera aircraft. Working with some of the best air-to-air photographers in the world, The Blades' library of images speaks for itself.
Library Footage
If you're in a hurry, our Press Office has miles of broadcast-quality footage from previous events available for your use.
Media Experience
The Blades have over 20 years of experience of being in the media spotlight. Our pilots have been involved in a broad range of high-profile events and associated media activity throughout their RAF careers. They have helped to create documentaries, generated iconic images and provided unforgettable content and interviews. We've become quite good at it!
Location We are based at a quiet and beautiful grass airfield just north of Northampton (50 mins on the train from St Pancras). Find out more. |
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