Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) Show days 2025
Overview & Key Facts
Dates: 18–20 July 2025 (21 July departure day) Location: RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, UK Theme: "Eyes in the Skies" – dedicated to intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and maritime patrol aviation Attendance: ~175,000 visitors across 3 days Participating Nations: 27 Aircraft: 224 in total (flying + static) Anniversary: 40 years of RIAT at RAF Fairford.
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Thematic Execution ("Eyes in the Skies") The 2025 edition delivered one of RIAT's most coherent thematic programs in years. Reviewers praised the inclusion of high-profile ISR and AEW aircraft: Lockheed U-2S Dragon Lady (USAF) – the only European appearance in 2025. Boeing E-7A Wedgetail AEW.1 (RAF) – debut airshow appearance, featuring in formation with the Red Arrows. Boeing P-8A Poseidon (RAF / US Navy) and RC-135V Rivet Joint showcased ISR and maritime patrol capabilities. French E-3F Sentry, Czech Let L-410FG, and Spanish HD.24 (S-61) added multinational ISR representation.
Flying Display Highlights Despite intermittent weather, the flying program was robust, running nearly 20 hours across the weekend. Standout acts included: RAF Typhoon FGR.4 – high-energy solo display (Winner: Paul Bowen Trophy). Danish F-16AM (Capt. Troels “TEO” Vang) – farewell display; emotional crowd favorite (Winner: Sir Douglas Bader Trophy). German A400M Atlas – dramatic low-pass with reverse-thrust roll. Frecce Tricolori – rare international performance celebrating 65 years. Czech W-3A Sokol duo and German NH90 TTH – strong rotary participation. Pakistani JF-17C Thunder (Block III) – first RIAT appearance.
Static Display & Ground Experience The static park extended nearly two miles across RAF Fairford. Star exhibits included the Egyptian Antonov An-74T, Pakistan Air Force C-130H (special livery) – winner of the Concours d’Elegance Trophy, and classic aircraft like the G.91R Gina.The Techno Zone, RAF Experience, and new Altitude Enclosure catered to broader audiences, mixing education with leisure.
Awards Summary (2025) AwardWinner Description Concours d’Elegance Trophy Pakistan Air Force C-130H Hercules Best-presented aircraft (special livery) Sir Douglas Bader Trophy Capt. Troels “TEO” Vang (RDAF F-16AM) Best individual flying display Paul Bowen Trophy Sqn Ldr Nathan Shawyer (RAF Typhoon FGR.4) Best solo jet demo Steedman Display Sword Lt. Andrea Gori (Frecce Tricolori) Outstanding contribution to flying displays