The Rogue Hunter – The Tower Bridge Incident.
In 1968, a daring act of defiance took place that would become one of the most talked-about moments in aviation history. This is the story of RAF Flight Lieutenant Alan Pollock, a pilot who risked it all by flying a Hawker Hunter jet through the iconic Tower Bridge in the heart of London. Dubbed the “Hawker Hunter Tower Bridge Incident,” this unprecedented maneuver was no mere stunt but a powerful statement, staged during a time of significant change and disillusionment in the Royal Air Force.
At the height of the Cold War, the UK Ministry of Defence had implemented sweeping changes, cutting aircraft numbers, disbanding squadrons, and stifling the spirit of the RAF. Amidst these frustrations, the RAF’s 50th anniversary came in 1968, but official celebrations were lackluster, limited to parades and low-key events. For Pollock and many others, the lack of a proper airborne celebration was a missed opportunity to honor the RAF’s storied history.
Outraged by this decision, Pollock decided to take matters into his own hands. Piloting his Hawker Hunter FGA.9, he embarked on an unsanctioned flight over central London on April 5, 1968. His mission: to pay tribute to the RAF in a way only a true aviator could. After breaking from his squadron and navigating low along the Thames to avoid commercial air traffic, Pollock circled the Houses of Parliament, buzzing the palace as Big Ben struck noon. But it was his unexpected encounter with Tower Bridge that turned his solo flight into a legend.
Approaching Tower Bridge at high speed, Pollock acted on impulse and aimed his jet between the bridge’s iconic towers, a feat never attempted by a jet aircraft. He narrowly avoided disaster, stunning onlookers and even causing a cyclist to fall off his bike. This unplanned maneuver not only cemented his place in history but also made a statement heard around the world.
The Hawker Hunter Tower Bridge Incident didn’t end there. Pollock continued his audacious flight, performing inverted flyovers at RAF stations Wattisham, Lakenheath, and Marham before returning to RAF West Raynham, where he was swiftly arrested. The government, aiming to avoid further embarrassment, chose to discharge him on medical grounds instead of facing a court-martial.
In this video, we delve into the full backstory of this incredible incident, exploring the politics and frustrations that led to Pollock’s bold decision. Using a full recreation of the flight path, we’ll take you through the moment-by-moment journey that brought a fighter jet roaring through London’s skies. With authentic detail and immersive visuals, this video captures the skill, nerve, and sheer audacity it took for Pollock to pull off one of the most unforgettable acts of rebellion in RAF history.
If you’ve ever wondered about the incredible stories that shape military aviation or want to see a fighter jet’s flight recreated with precision, hit that play button. Join us in uncovering why one RAF pilot’s moment of rebellion continues to inspire generations and remains etched in the annals of aviation history. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more stories that bring military history to life, from daring aerial maneuvers to the pivotal moments that defined the Cold War!
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Thank you, a daring stunt!
Just two days later Racing Driver Jim Clark died in Germany in a Formula 2 race.
A few old Airforce bases got turned into Race tracks – Thruxton/Silverstone/Snetterton Heath.
Omg this.
It's a good thing the coal smoke didn't prevent him from seeing where he was going
It's amazing how sparse information on this incident is. Wikipedia offers nothing that the video doesn't. Although there is a podcast interview from 2020 with Alan.
Know this story well, pity he wasn't carrying a full weapons load! sloppy graphics tho., the London Eye wasn't built then!
An excellent showing airmanship and Defiance and big fu-you to the government and very entertaining for ongoing spectators..
He thought it was bad then, he would be weeping now !
Nice to hear the "Blue Note" from the Hunter!
I love this man, class
Now there's a man with balls…..