But on a flying visit to BAE Systems in Warton yesterday (FRI), the pilots admitted they would much rather fly over the skyline of Blackpool than New York!

The Arrows' American adventure meant they were absent from this summer's Blackpool Airshow, but hopes are high they will soon be in the skies above the resort's most famous landmark again.

Flight Lieut Paul "Pablo" O'Grady said: "Flying over Manhattan was awesome for all the team, but I think the majority of us would prefer to fly over Blackpool Tower.

"That's partly because the reception you get from the British crowds is so much better than abroad.

"New York was excellent though and doing a tour of the States was excellent. It's always good to come back and do the British airshows though.

"The new jet is a great bit of kit and I would love to have a go of it."

Top guns from the Hawk-based formation team were at BAE's Warton base ahead of today's Southport Airshow.

It was also a chance for them to get up close and personal to the new Hawk 128 advanced training jets at Warton as part of the defence giants £600m contract with the RAF.

All pilots begin their training for fast jets in Hawks - including the Red Arrows team - who have returned to flying the jets following active service in aircraft such as the Tornado and Harrier.

The new Hawk 128s are test flown at Warton before being deployed to the RAF.

The Hawk 128 is used by pilots as a stepping stone to faster jets. Many of those who fly them will go on to use the Warton-built Eurofighter Typhoon jet.

Squadron leader Graham Duff said: "It's an amazing experience to be part of the team but it takes a lot of hard work and dedication.

"When you are a fighter pilot you seem to shy away from the public but as soon as you join the Reds you are thrust into the spotlight. The adoration you get from the public is unbelievable."

Simon Shrouder, senior communications advisor for BAE Systems Warton, said: "It was great to show the pilots the new Hawk 128. All of the lads have been in active service so its good to show them what is new."