The Aviation Magazine 51 July-August 2017 | Page 58
The history of the Patrouille de France and their aircraft over the years
To commemorate the first centenary since the entry of the United States in the First World War in 1917, the
Patrouille de France, France’s premier aerobatic team decided to visit the U.S. this year. For those who may
not yet be aware the Patrouille de France, (PAF) is the oldest military aerobatic team in the world whose ori‐
gins go back all the way to 1931.
In 1931 France's first aerobatic demonstration took place over Étampes‐Mondésir aerodrome. It was per‐
formed by the instructors from the local flying school under the command of Captain Amouroux,
with Morane‐Saulnier MS‐230 aircraft. The team (known as patrol in France) received considerable praise,
their fruits of labour was rewarded by being chosen to represent France in national and international events
under the name of “Patrouille de Etampes”.
In 1934, another team was formed under Captain Weiser in Dijon. The particularity of the team "Weiser", or
"Circus Weiser", had a unique flying feature: during their demonstration, two of the aircraft would fly their
routine while tied together with steel ropes. This uniqueness brought the team huge popularity and public
acclaim. They flew Morane Saulnier MS 225 and Spad 510, with up to 18 aircraft at a time.
In 1937, the Patrouille d’Etampes was relocated to the Salon‐de‐Provence airbase, the home of the national
Air Force Academy, adopting the name Patrouille de l'École de l'air ("Flying school Patrol"). The Second
World War interrupted the operations of all the aerobatic teams.
After the Second World War, in 1946 Captain Perrier, Patrouille d'Etampes veteran, re‐established an aero‐
batic team at Airbase 705 Tours; home of the Ecole de l'Aviation de Chasse (Fighter Pilot School). The team
was once again the team was named after the location as the "Patrouille de Tours" composed of 12 Stampe
SV4C in 1946. In 1947 the team was given the name "Air Force Presentation Squadron" by the Air Force De‐
partment. As their popularity increased of their performances, a number of similar units were formed within
the Air Force. Interestingly enough their crest stated “Patrouille d'Etampes”.