The pilot scooped The King Hussein Memorial Sword for Best Overall Flying Display and the As the Crow Flies Trophy awarded by the Friends of the Air Tattoo, whilst his aircraft won an award for the best livery.

Speaking from the US, Ricardo said: “I am absolutely delighted to be back. I made a strong play to be back last year but there was too much down-time between the Paris Air Show and the Air Tattoo to justify having our jets in Europe for both shows. I was sad to miss being at RAF Fairford last year but am very much looking forward to this year’s airshow.

“The Air Tattoo is hands-down the best military show in the world. Having done demos of the Super Hornet in Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, France, the UK, and Switzerland, there is no show in the world quite like the Air Tattoo. Of particular note are the fans and the attendance at RIAT. It is clearly a show about aircraft and the people who love them.

“The crowd can expect an even better show from the Super Hornet team this year. I had no idea what to expect at my first RIAT in 2004. Now I do! The Super Hornet is a great machine, and I plan to demo all it can do. I do not plan to fly the aircraft loaded with 10 missiles like I did in 04. This year's show will be different and clean (no weapons) so expect a faster, more dynamic show with all the high-angle-of-attack and signature maneouvres that only a Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet can do.”