Wing Commander David Montenegro, known as Monty, was picked as team leader of the Red Arrows in 2015 after joining the team in 2009.

However, he's now been sidelined as air force bosses look into historical allegations.

The claims reportedly centre around a relationship with a junior member of his team.

There is no suggestion of abuse or harassment, it is understood.

It comes days after the RAF said it had sacked some personnel after an inquiry revealed "a broad range of unacceptable behaviours" at the aerobatics display team.

A statement last week said several personnel had been investigated, with a range of outcomes "up to and including dismissals from the RAF".

In August, the head of the RAF vowed to address "legitimate questions" raised about allegations of sexual harassment and bullying within the Red Arrows, along with a number of other issues.

An air force spokesman confirmed on Tuesday that Wing Commander Montenegro - also known as Red 1 - had been suspended after allegations dating back to 2017 had been made.

"All RAF personnel are expected to maintain the highest standards of behaviour," a statement said.

It said the claims would be "thoroughly investigated".

"Pending that investigation and without prejudice, the individual has been removed from post. We will not be commenting further while the investigation is ongoing," the statement added.

The display team are currently on tour in the Middle East and a few days ago flew over Dubai in formation with an Airbus A380, the world's biggest passenger jet.

The Red Arrows' leader has had an illustrious 23-year RAF career, including as a Tornado fighter pilot, tours in Afghanistan, and as a special projects officer with the US Marine Corps.