RIAT reveals themes for next year's air show

Organisers of the Royal International Air Tattoo have unveiled a trio of themes for next year’s show.

Over 150,000 visitors descended on RAF Fairford earlier this year, with 253 aircraft on display across the three-day event.

Planning's already underway for next year's event, which will be held from 19th – 21st July - with the themes of ‘Pushing the Boundaries in Air & Space’, 75 years of NATO and 50 years of the F-16 Fighting Falcon

Organisers have announced the show will be highlighting the vital work carried out by flight test and evaluation establishments, under the theme ‘Pushing the Boundaries in Air & Space’.

As part of this, they plan to display aircraft from military flight test units, alongside developmental aircraft from commercial manufacturers, and future aircraft pioneering sustainable aviation, such as hydrogen and electric powered aircraft.

RIAT 2024 will also host a global gathering marking 50 years of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, celebrating the success of this iconic aircraft type, displaying operators of the aircraft from around the world.

In addition, the show will also mark 75 years of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).

Chief Executive Officer for Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprise, Paul Atherton said: “As always, we think carefully about what themes to highlight each year at RIAT, but for 2024 we are blessed with a diverse and relevant selection.

“The iconic F-16 which has been the backbone of many Air Forces for many years, the contribution NATO has delivered and continues to bring across Europe, and a celebration of test flying which began with the first aircraft some 100 years ago and will continue to shape the future of sustainable aviation over the coming years.”

While the main themes for next year’s show have been revealed, there will still be further announcements on other areas of activity at the event over the coming months as planning continues.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.