Air Force Scrum to Fly Lions to South Africa

The official aircraft taking the British & Irish Lions team to South Africa for the impending Lions Tour has been named ‘Air Force Scrum’.

In a competition run by British Airways, Dublin Trinity College student Dara Fahy came up with the winning name for the Boeing 747 taking the players, coaches and support staff to Johannesburg on Sunday 24 May.

Dara, 23 years old, said, “I’m delighted that British Airways have deemed my entry the winner - it is a huge honour. I chose 'Air Force Scrum' in the hope that it inspires our boys ahead of what will be a massive physical test in South Africa. I also feel it encapsulates the sense of humour and camaraderie that are essential ingredients in Ian McGeechan's recipe for success. Come on the Lions!”

Extra food and drink will be loaded for the flight for the team of players, who together weigh more than 3725kg. The menu includes a ‘four-nations’ selection of dishes including Rachel’s Organic Peach Yoghurt from Wales, freshly sourced catch of the day from Scotland’s Loch Fyne, potted crab with toasted flatbread – one of Ireland’s most favoured dishes – and of course, a traditional English breakfast.

Former British & Lions player Jeremy Guscott, who helped judge the nominations said, “Air Force Scrum just says it all! I know the boys will be very proud to fly on the official British Airways flight named in their honour.”

Other nominations for the aircraft name included; Try & Glory, Courage, The Roar Of The Four and All Roar One. For his winning entry Dara will receive a picture of the team with the aircraft and a signed shirt.

The players will fly in British Airways’ Club World business class offering fully flat beds and a menu inspired by some of the world’s top chefs to ensure they arrive refreshed and ready for the Tour ahead.

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