Saab MFI-15 Safari (x6)

The SAAB MFI-15 Safari, otherwise known as the SAAB MFI-17 Supporter first flew during 1969 with a conventional low-set tailplane. In 1971 a new prototype flew with a more powerful engine with a high T-tail which allowed the aircraft to safely operate from rough airstrips. In addition to being a successful military trainer, the type was also purchased in significant numbers by private pilots. In total 462 aircraft were built including 212 aircraft being licence built in Pakistan.

The Royal Norwegian Air Force ordered 16 examples n 1981 as a primary trainer. Their fleet are all painted bright yellow and are based at Bardufoss Air Station with the RNoAF Flight Training School which moved to the base from Trondheim during 2003. The SAAB Safari also equips the Royal Norwegian Air Force display team, the Yellow Sparrows.

As part of our celebration of the 75th anniversary of NATO, the Royal Norwegian Air Force will be sending the Yellow Sparrows with their six bright yellow Safaris to display at RIAT 2024. We are pleased to announce that this will be a UK display debut for the team.

Photo Credit: Luftforsvaret