22/05/2026
Another week, another ! Join us as we continue our trip down memory lane to explore the history of the world's greatest military airshow 🫶
Despite challenging weather conditions across the weekend, RIAT23 proved to be another record-breaking year, welcoming more than 150,000 visitors to RAF Fairford. The show’s operational theme, SKYTANKER, marked the 100th anniversary of the world’s first successful air-to-air refuelling, while the event also celebrated the centenary of the Italian Air Force, who were strongly represented throughout the show.
One of the most talked-about appearances of RIAT23 was the Messerschmitt Me 262. With only a handful of replicas existing worldwide, its participation at Fairford marked a UK debut and generated significant excitement both ahead of and during the event as it took to the Gloucestershire skies. Other standout moments included an award-winning display from the French Air & Space Force’s Dassault Rafale, which claimed two flying display awards, as well as a dramatic air-to-air refuelling demonstration involving a Luftwaffe A400M and two Tornados.
Friday also saw a special visit from The Prince and Princess of Wales, accompanied by their three children, as they toured the RAF Experience and stepped aboard a C-17A Globemaster. The visit carried additional significance, as the same aircraft had been used in the repatriation of HM Queen Elizabeth II in 2022.
On the ground, the Techno Zone returned in full force with nearly 30 interactive exhibits, including drones and virtual reality experiences. The Inspire Stage also built on its successful debut at RIAT22, welcoming aviation and aerospace industry leaders for a series of engaging talks and discussions.
Following another hugely successful year at RAF Fairford, attention soon turned towards 2024... but what would it bring? ✈️
