The Patrulla Aguila, the Spanish Air Force aerobatics display team based in San Javier

The Patrulla Aguila is the Spanish equivalent of the Red Arrows in the RAF

The history of aerobatics is as old as the history of aviation, and in Spain the Patrulla Águila, which was formed in 1985, did not create a new tradition, rather it was the logical continuation of one which had existed within the Spanish air force for decades.

The first squadron to be dedicated to aerobatic displays in the Spanish air force was created at the base of Matacán, in the province of Salamanca, in 1954, and used T-6 aircraft, and those which followed included one at Talavera la Real in Badajoz (with three T-33s) and another at Los Llanos (Albacete), using four Mirage F-1 craft.

The first national aerobatics team flew four F-86 Sabre aircraft from their base at Manises (Valencia) in 1956, and later performed for nine years under the name of “Patrulla Ascua” in memory of the nickname of a deceased companion.

This was the context in which the Patrulla Águila was formed on 4^th June 1985 at the military air base of San Javier, flying five new Casa C-101 aircraft, initially with the mission of assessing the plane’s handling and performance. At this point the group was formed by Captains Carrizosa, Polo, Lorenzo, Novau, Segura, Villanueva, Uribarri, Ferrer and Bordallo.

The Patrulla Aguila, the Spanish Air Force aerobatics display team based in San Javier

The first flight was a success, and soon the number of aircraft was raised to six and the use of smoke canisters was incorporated into displays. A seventh plane was inaugurated in 1988, and on the national holiday of 12th October 1992 the colours of the flag of Spain were painted for the first time in the sky over Sevilla.

The squadron now has over 25,000 hours of flying time under its belt, and has taken part in air shows and numerous other events in its role as an ambassador for Spain all over the world.

Visitors to the Mar Menor will often be treated to the spectacle of the Eagle Patrol rehearsing in the skies above San Javier and the Patrulla Águila perform over the waters of the lagoon during important events in the municipality.

Click for more information about the San Javier municipality: SAN JAVIER TODAY