The world’s largest military airshow is set for a historic relocation. The Royal Air Force Charitable Trust (RAFCTE) confirmed on Wednesday afternoon that the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) will move from its long-standing home at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire to MOD Boscombe Down near Amesbury, Wiltshire.
The announcement marks a significant turning point for the iconic event. While the 2026 edition of the airshow was previously cancelled, organizers are already looking ahead, with RIAT27 scheduled to take place from July 16 to 18, 2027. Hundreds of tickets for the 2027 event have already been sold; the trust has confirmed that all existing bookings remain valid, and customers will be contacted regarding the venue transition in the near future.
Gavin Gager, Chief Executive of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises, framed the move as a vital strategic decision. “Every generation of RIAT has had its defining moments, and I believe this is one of them,” Gager said. “The decision to move to Boscombe Down is about much more than a new location. It is about securing the future of the world’s greatest military airshow and the charitable impact it generates for future generations.”
The airshow serves as the primary fundraiser for the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, which uses the proceeds to promote STEM engagement for hundreds of thousands of young people. Mr. Gager expressed gratitude to the Fairford community for their decades of support, noting that the team would continue to be based in Fairford despite the change in venue for the flight operations.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth, Chief of the Air Staff, praised the transition, highlighting the rich aviation heritage of the new site. “As RIAT begins an exciting new chapter at MOD Boscombe Down, it will be based at a site with a proud history of supporting military aviation,” Smyth said. “This move secures the future of the airshow for decades to come.”
The move has been welcomed by local officials, with Wiltshire Council leader Cllr Ian Thorn describing the development as “fantastic news” for the region. “Bringing the Royal International Air Tattoo to Boscombe Down will put us on the national and international stage, attract thousands of visitors and provide a real boost for local businesses,” he added.
RIAT is widely celebrated for its diverse international flying displays and vast static aircraft exhibits, alongside popular attractions such as the RAF Experience and the Techno Zone. Organizers have indicated that further information regarding travel, accommodation, and updates to the showground layout will be released in the coming months.
For further details and frequently asked questions, attendees are encouraged to visit the official event website at https://www.airtattoo.com/faqs/.
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