The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT), one of the world’s largest military airshows held in the United Kingdom, has been cancelled for only the second time in its nearly 50-year history.

Organisers confirmed that the decision was taken due to security and operational uncertainties related to access and use of RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, where the annual event is hosted.

According to the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises (RAFCT), the cancellation was “not an easy decision” and followed extensive consultations with relevant authorities, including the United States Air Force (USAF), which operates from the base during the event period.

Ticket options for attendees

Organisers have announced that ticket holders will be offered multiple options, including:

  1. Full refunds
  2. Transfer of tickets to RIAT 2027
  3. Donation of ticket proceeds to the RAF Charitable Trust

Officials confirmed that the 2026 edition has not been postponed but fully cancelled, with the show expected to return in 2027.

RAFCT Chief Executive Gavin Gager said the decision was difficult, adding that “the summer won’t be the same without RIAT 2026.”

Rare cancellation in RIAT history

RIAT has been cancelled only once before since its inception, in 2008, when heavy rainfall in the lead-up to the event left car parks unusable and disrupted logistics at RAF Fairford.

The airshow typically attracts around 170,000 visitors and features aircraft displays from air forces around the world, often showcasing distinctive paint schemes and international participation.