Which French aerobatic team performs flyovers on Bastille Day?

The French aerobatic team that performs flyovers on Bastille Day is the Patrouille de France.

The Patrouille de France is the official aerobatic display team of the French Air and Space Force. Its pilots fly Dassault-Dornier Alpha Jets in the blue, white and red colours of the French flag, making the formation especially suited to France’s national-day celebrations.

Its best-known Bastille Day appearance takes place over Paris on 14 July, when the team follows the military parade along the Champs-Élysées. The smoke trails and tightly coordinated formations are part of the broader aerial display that opens or accompanies the parade. The team is often confused with Italy’s Frecce Tricolori, Britain’s Red Arrows or the United States Navy’s Blue Angels; all are famous aerobatic teams, but none is France’s national display team.

The Patrouille de France was established in 1953 and adopted its present name in 1957. “Patrouille” means patrol or formation, while “France” identifies its national role.