This year’s Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) has been cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, organisers have confirmed.
The air show, held at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, has been running for more than 50 years and regularly attracts crowds of more than 170,000 people.
A RIAT spokesperson said: “It is with great disappointment that we are letting you know this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo will not be taking place.
“We understand how much RIAT means to so many people; our visitors, volunteers, partners, and the wider community who return year after year. We know the memories, traditions, and anticipation that build around the event.
“This has not been an easy decision. It follows extensive discussions with the Royal Air Force and the United States Air Force regarding uncertainty over access to RAF Fairford, given the ongoing situation in the Middle East.
“We want to thank you for your continued support and understanding. Everyone who has purchased a ticket will be offered the choice to roll over their tickets to RIAT27, receive a full refund, or donate the cost of their tickets to the RAF Charitable Trust, supporting our wider charitable work.”
Gavin Gager, Chief Executive Officer of Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises, said: “We know how much RIAT means to everyone, and recognise how disappointing this news will be. It is a disappointment we feel just as strongly.
“We would like to thank everyone for their support, loyalty, and understanding. Looking ahead, we look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2027, and to making sure RIAT comes back stronger than ever.”
