IT was a triumphant return for a full-strength Red Arrows at Bournemouth Air Festival today.

The setting could not have been better for the Reds to make their return as a nine-ship formation for the first time since the tragic death of Flt Lt Jon Egging two years ago.

Crowds were treated to a full-on show from the team, which dedicated its heart formation to Jon Egging’s family, as the sun shone over Bournemouth seafront.

It was the perfect end to the daytime flying on the first day of the sixth air festival.

See all the pictures from day one of the Bournemouth Air Festival 2013 here

The afternoon began with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, whose Lancaster bomber, Spitfire and Hurricane swooped against blue skies in scenes reminiscent of the summer of 1940.

The Lancaster’s solo display paid tribute to the famous Dambusters raids of 70 years ago.

The RV8tors then gave the thousands on the beach and cliff top their first dose of daring aerobatics, before more history screamed into view in the shape of the Jet Provost.

The Tucano showed one of the stages all fast jet pilots complete during their training, before a new team arrived in the shape of France’s Patrouille Reva, a sure indication of the event’s ability to attract teams from overseas.

This year’s first helicopter then took to the skies – a solo Black Cat Lynx display – before the Tigers parachute team dropped onto the beach.

Multiple aerobatic champion Gerald Cooper stunned onlookers with his gravity-defying flying, while the Merlin helicopter got up close to the crowds ahead of a chance to see a Rolls Royce Spitfire flying solo.

But it was the Red Arrows that stole the show.

It could not have played out better – blue skies, sunshine and a full-strength Red Arrows team.

What a start.

See all our coverage, pictures, details on our photo competition, schedule and information on how getting here, plus lots more, at bournemouthecho.co.uk/air