The Flying Comrades Yak Display Team | Headcorn Airshow

The Flying Comrades are a UK-based aerobatic formation display team, known for precise close-formation flying and regular appearances at the IWM Duxford Airshows.

They fly a distinctive and rarely seen combination: one Yakovlev Yak-18T (4-seat trainer/aerobatic aircraft) alongside two Yakovlev Yak-52s (2-seat basic trainers). Their display features tight formation work, including Echelon Right manoeuvres and formation breaks with smoke—a disciplined, military-style presentation that stands out on the UK airshow circuit.

Cleared to display at Headcorn International Airshow.

At a glance

• Display team: The Flying Comrades

• Based in: United Kingdom

• Formation: 1 × Yakovlev Yak-18T + 2 × Yakovlev Yak-52

• Signature flying: Tight formation, Echelon Right, smoke breaks

• Regular venues: IWM Duxford Airshows, Duxford Flying Days

• Also seen at: SleapKosh, Old Warden

• Pilots often featured: Phil Hardisty, Alex Lewton, Tom Turner

• Also associated displays: “A Flight” formation with L-4 Cubs

• Instagram: @flying_comrades

Why this display is unique

Most formation teams fly identical aircraft. The Flying Comrades are different: they present a mixed Yakovlev formation built around the Yak-18T and Yak-52 - an unusual pairing that creates a distinctive silhouette, pace, and presence in the air.

What to expect in the display

Expect a tight, disciplined formation routine rather than solo “freestyle” aerobatics—close spacing, clean geometry, and crowd-pleasing smoke-enhanced break manoeuvres, delivered with calm precision.

See them at Headcorn International Airshow

The Flying Comrades are confirmed to display at Headcorn International Airshow, bringing a rare Yakovlev formation to the flying programme.