Air Chief Marshall Sir Rich Knighton has apologised particularly, he said, to three women who raised complaints with his predecessor
The Chief of the Air Staff has apologised after a report found unacceptable behaviours including sexual harassment and bullying were "widespread and normalised" on the RAF's Red Arrows display team.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton, Chief of the Air Staff said: "I want first to say that I am sorry and offer my unreserved apologies to any individuals that were subjected to unacceptable behaviours during their association with the Red Arrows, particularly the three women who felt they had no option but to raise their complaints directly with my predecessor.
"The situation was compounded by a 'bystander culture', meaning people did not challenge what was happening. The behaviours described by witnesses in the reports have no place in the Royal Air Force - or anywhere else. The findings of the investigations are clear. Actions have been taken against a number of individuals, up to and including dismissal from the Service.
"I was appalled when I read the investigations' findings. The behaviour of a minority of individuals has harmed the Squadron's reputation and that of the Royal Air Force. Like my predecessor, I am intent on rebuilding public trust in one of our highest-profile units. I know that the current team is working hard to do just that.
"The leadership, air and ground crews of the Red Arrows have undergone many changes since the period covered by the investigations, with few still serving on the Squadron from that time. I have confidence in the command and people of the current Squadron. More broadly, I would like to make it very clear today that where appropriate, I will not hesitate to use the most severe sanctions available to me to deal with those whose behaviour harms others.
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