Kirsty Murphy MBE MEng – Trailblazer of British Aviation and Innovation
Kirsty Murphy MBE MEng stands as a remarkable figure in British aviation and innovation, known for her outstanding contributions both in the Royal Air Force (RAF) and in the modern aerospace and transport innovation sectors. Her career, defined by resilience, leadership, and passion, has inspired countless individuals to pursue excellence in aviation and beyond. As the first and only female pilot in the world-famous RAF Red Arrows, she not only broke barriers but also redefined what women in aviation could achieve. Today, she continues her mission at Connected Places Catapult, leading initiatives that shape the future of aviation and smart mobility in the United Kingdom.
Kirsty Murphy: Early Life and Academic Excellence
Kirsty Murphy’s journey towards aviation greatness began with a strong academic foundation. She studied at Stamford High School from 1988 to 1995, where she developed her interest in science, engineering, and flying. Her determination to combine these interests led her to one of the UK’s most prestigious institutions—Imperial College London, where she earned a Master of Engineering (MEng) in Aeronautical Engineering between 1995 and 1999.
During her studies, she was part of the University of London Air Squadron (ULAS), completing her Elementary Flying Training—an early glimpse into her future career in the skies. She also demonstrated international academic engagement by completing a four-month project at the Technische Universität München (TUM) in Germany, where she introduced a new flow visualisation technique using smoke particles in aerodynamic testing. This innovative mindset would later become a hallmark of her professional life.
Kirsty Murphy and Her Groundbreaking RAF Career
From RAF Valley to Tornado Missions
In 1998, Kirsty Murphy joined the Royal Air Force, marking the start of an illustrious 17-year career. Her early years saw her qualify as a Hawk T1 Instructor Pilot at RAF Valley, Anglesey. Here, she taught advanced flying techniques and became an Instrument Rating Examiner, responsible for training and assessing a new generation of pilots.
Between 2005 and 2009, she served as a Tornado GR4 pilot on XIII Squadron at RAF Marham, Norfolk. During this period, she became combat ready and was deployed to Operation Telic in Iraq in 2007 and 2008. She participated in large-scale exercises in the United States, Germany, and Canada, and later became a Squadron Training Officer and Deputy Flight Commander—roles that demanded both precision and leadership under high-pressure environments.
Breaking Barriers: The First Female Red Arrows Pilot
In 2009, Kirsty Murphy achieved what no woman had done before—she joined the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows. As a Team Display Pilot, she flew in the prestigious positions of Red 3 and Red 5 for the 2010 and 2011 seasons, and later as Red 9 while serving as Executive Officer in 2012.
Her inclusion in the Red Arrows was not just symbolic; it was transformative. It showcased the RAF’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, inspiring countless young women to consider aviation as a viable and rewarding career. During her time with the team, she performed in hundreds of air displays across the UK and internationally, representing British excellence in skill, teamwork, and discipline.
Leadership and Strategy Roles within the RAF
Kirsty’s RAF journey also included vital leadership roles that influenced future training systems. Between 2013 and 2015, she worked as Fast Jet Training and Capability Manager in Bristol, providing expert advice on safety management, training delivery, and procurement across multiple flying schools. She was instrumental in transitioning the UK’s basic flying training from the Tucano aircraft to a new generation of platforms at RAF Valley.
Her strategic insight and ability to manage complex transitions proved that she was not just a skilled pilot but also a capable leader and visionary within the aviation sector.
Kirsty Murphy After the RAF: From Aerobatics to Innovation
The Blades Aerobatic Display Team and Event Leadership
After retiring from the RAF in 2015, Kirsty Murphy joined 2Excel Aviation Ltd as a Blades Aerobatic Display Team Pilot and Events Consultant. For nearly six years, she performed formation displays across Europe and managed high-profile aviation events.
Her management skills shone through when she was personally requested by Aston Martin Cambridge to lead a complex five-day VIP event during the Le Mans 24-hour race in 2019, managing a £460,000 budget and coordinating 48 clients and 30 staff. She also led 2Excel’s participation at the Farnborough International Airshow, managing budgets exceeding £200,000 while ensuring compliance with aviation regulations.
Under her leadership, a charity auction gala for 350 guests raised £40,000 for the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, further proving her ability to merge aviation expertise with community impact.
UK Space Agency and Department for Transport Roles
In 2021, Kirsty transitioned to the UK Space Agency, where she served as Project Delivery Manager, Head of Secretariat, and later Chief of Staff. Her role involved supporting senior leadership, managing executive boards, and ensuring smooth coordination between strategic departments.
Her reputation for professionalism and leadership earned her a special appointment in 2019 by the Department for Transport (DfT) as an Aviation Ambassador. Personally selected by Secretary of State Grant Shapps, her mission was to inspire young people and promote diversity in the aviation industry. She actively participated in conferences such as Women in Aviation International and British Women Pilots Association events, and even represented the UK government at Expo 2020 Dubai, discussing the future of global travel.
Kirsty Murphy at Connected Places Catapult
Today, Kirsty Murphy plays a leading role at Connected Places Catapult, the UK’s innovation accelerator for cities, transport, and places. Since joining in April 2022, she has held several key positions, including Senior Executive Assistant to the COO, Executive Office and Business Performance Team Lead, Accelerator Programme Manager, and now Aviation Senior Consultant.
Her work focuses on aviation innovation, mobility systems, and sustainable infrastructure, where she combines her operational expertise with her passion for progress. Operating from Milton Keynes, she contributes to projects that explore cutting-edge developments in aerospace, space mobility, and urban transport—aligning innovation with national strategy.
Kirsty’s analytical and proactive nature has made her an asset in every role she has undertaken. Her colleagues describe her as a calm and rational problem-solver, capable of balancing technical complexity with human understanding. Her continued focus on youth engagement ensures that her leadership extends beyond the office, empowering future generations to aim high.
Awards, Honours, and Certifications
Kirsty Murphy’s excellence has been recognised at the highest levels. She was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in June 2021 for her services to aviation. This prestigious honour highlighted her pioneering achievements and dedication to the aerospace community.
In addition to her engineering background, she holds the APM Project Management Qualification from the Association for Project Management, awarded in 2014, which further reinforces her credentials as both a strategist and a project leader.
Inspiration and Legacy of Kirsty Murphy
Kirsty Murphy’s story transcends professional success—it is a testament to courage, adaptability, and vision. Her journey from a young engineering student to a trailblazing Red Arrows pilot, and now an aviation innovation leader, symbolises the evolution of British aviation through talent, diversity, and determination.
Her advocacy for mental health awareness, gender equality, and STEM education makes her an influential role model for aspiring aviators and engineers. Through her ongoing work, she continues to raise aspirations, reminding young people that barriers exist only to be broken.
Conclusion: A Leader Redefining the Skies and Beyond
Kirsty Murphy MBE MEng is more than a decorated pilot—she is a leader shaping the future of aviation and innovation. From flying Tornado jets and performing high-speed aerobatics with the Red Arrows to driving national-level transport innovation, her achievements highlight a rare blend of technical mastery, emotional intelligence, and visionary leadership.
As the Aviation Senior Consultant at Connected Places Catapult, Kirsty Murphy continues to lead from the front—championing innovation, empowering youth, and leaving an enduring mark on the skies and the future of British aviation.
FAQs
1. Who is Kirsty Murphy MBE?
Kirsty Murphy MBE MEng is a British aviation specialist, former Royal Air Force officer, and the first and only female pilot in the RAF Red Arrows. She currently works as an Aviation Senior Consultant at Connected Places Catapult, leading innovation and mobility projects across the UK.
2. What is Kirsty Murphy known for in the Red Arrows?
Kirsty Murphy made history by becoming the first female Red Arrows pilot in 2010. She flew in key formation positions such as Red 3, Red 5, and Red 9, representing the UK in high-profile aerobatic displays around the world. Her achievement broke gender barriers in one of aviation’s most prestigious teams.
3. What roles has Kirsty Murphy held after leaving the RAF?
After 17 years in the RAF, she joined the Blades Aerobatic Display Team, performed across Europe, and managed large-scale aviation events. She also worked at the UK Space Agency as Chief of Staff and later joined Connected Places Catapult, where she now contributes to aviation innovation and sustainable transport initiatives.
4. What awards and recognition has Kirsty Murphy received?
Kirsty Murphy was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in June 2021 for her services to aviation. She was also appointed as an Aviation Ambassador by the UK Department for Transport in 2019 to inspire young people and promote diversity within the aviation industry.
5. How is Kirsty Murphy contributing to the future of aviation?
At Connected Places Catapult, Kirsty Murphy leads projects focused on aviation innovation, mobility systems, and sustainability. Through her expertise, public speaking, and mentoring, she continues to raise aspirations and empower future generations to pursue careers in science, technology, and aviation.
