Thing is, it seems it's the only alternative to the solo displays. We wouldn't be seeing an E-3D on the show circuit as a singleton (except for at Waddington), nor the Tornado F3. I'm willing to bet there'd be no GR4 display either.
E3D - what can it do? Not exactly an exciting "show" aircraft. Mega buck to fly there too.
We've lost the Merlin and Harrier too, so hopefully this role demo should keep a few types on the circuit that wouldn't be there otherwise (unfortunately no Merlin or Harrier in the demo either).
A singleton Harrier and Merlin can attend more shows and cost less than several at a role demo. Fewer crew demands too.
Still, that Spirit of Adventure is a pile of crap. An extraordinarily high entry price (and on top of that booking fees, parking fees and parking booking fees) combined with a terribly short flying display... surely it can't be a success? Perhaps they should put more effort into making Waddington and Cosford better shows.
Indeed. I quite agree.
Never mind the pathetic idea of an RAF clothing line!
I think I've already made my feelings clear on those. Use any logo you like to "sell" as a brand for the RAF, but not a flying badge/brevet, particularly the pilot's wings.