Airscene News – Airshow and Aviation Museum news.

Royal Air Force Charitable Trust impacts over a million young people with STEM work

Figures from the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust (RAFCT) have revealed that 1.2 million young people have benefitted from their work since 2022.

The Gloucestershire-based charity invests in leading UK charities to help build the strategic delivery capacity the UK needs to inspire young people to fulfil their potential in STEM, with particular focus on air, space, and technology.

In 2022, RAFCT published its intention to reach 500,000 young people by this summer but new figures show they have more than exceeded that target.

Reflecting on the achievement, Director at Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, Dr Kevin P Stenson said: “This is a landmark moment for our charity. Since 2022, we have reached more young people than ever before, demonstrating the scale of the challenge the UK faces, the strategic need and the impact that can be achieved when organisations work together with a shared purpose.

“I would like to thank my team and our dedicated partners for their unwavering commitment to supporting young people to engage with STEM across the UK. Their collective efforts are helping to unlock potential, build confidence and create opportunities where they are needed most.

“The challenges facing young people today are significant, which is why I believe our work has never been more important. While we are proud of this achievement, it also drives us to do more, reach further, and ensure that every young person has the chance to build a positive future.”

RAFCT has helped delivered STEM engagements to 10% of primary and secondary schools in the UK, with over 20 different partnerships inspiring young people to reach their potential in air, space, and technology.

Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Chairman, Air Marshal Phil Osborn said: “I have had the privilege of being Chair of RAFCT since 2020, and I have never been more optimistic about the future of the Charity and RIAT, the air show that powers our work.’

“To see our ambition of reaching 500,000 young people not only achieved but more than doubled to 1.2 million is a remarkable testament to the vision, dedication and collaboration of everyone involved.

“This success is about far more than numbers. Every young person inspired to explore Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) represents potential for our Nation’s future prosperity, resilience and national security. The UK’s future depends on developing the talent, skill and commitment of the next generation, and the Trust is proud to play its part in that national endeavour.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we do so with a clear sense that our work is only just beginning. There are many more young people whose potential is waiting to be unlocked, and we remain committed to working with our partners to ensure that opportunity reaches every corner of the United Kingdom.”

To learn more visit www.RAFCT.com

RIAT27 tickets on sale now!

Get ready for an unforgettable return to RAF Fairford from 16-18 July 2027. Experience spectacular flying displays, incredible aircraft, family entertainment, and the unique atmosphere that makes RIAT the world’s greatest airshow, all set against our Tiger Gathering theme for RIAT27. (More themes will be announced later this year – watch this space!).

Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or planning an amazing day out with family and friends, RIAT27 is an event you won’t want to miss. There’s something for everyone, young or old, to enjoy.

Over 60,000 tickets have been rolled over to next year’s show after this year’s cancellation – thank you so much from everyone at RIAT HQ for your support and we look forward to being back bigger and better than ever in 2027!

Demand is expected to be high for the remaining tickets, so now is the perfect time to buy to ensure you don’t miss out.

BOOK TICKETS

Sell-out Crowd at Wallop Wheels & Wings

A spectacular festival of motoring and aviation not only brought a fabulous array of vehicles and aircraft from across the country roaring into the Army Flying Museum at Middle Wallop, Hampshire last Saturday (11 July), but also saw a magnificent air display programme which wowed yet another capacity sell-out crowd.

The Army Flying Museum, and the adjacent Army Air Corps airfield, saw its highest number of aircraft, motorcycles, classic and super cars descend on an extremely hot day, for the sixth Wallop, Wheels and Wings event, attracting over 5000 visitors. The event, which was sponsored by GKN Aerospace and Boeing Defence UK, again surpassed visitor expectations and was undoubtedly the biggest and best it has hosted, with tickets selling out in advance of the event. The afternoon saw a number of air displays including the Royal Navy Raiders Parachute Team, Pitts Special and Yak3 displays, and a stunning display from the Gazelle Squadron. The day culminated in a breathtaking finale from the Army Air Corps Display Team.

Spectacular Spitfires were in abundance at the event to wow the crowds and to celebrate the 90^th anniversary of the first Spitfire flight.

On the ground there were over 400 classic and super cars in attendance, spanning over one hundred years of motoring including an eye-catching display from the AA Heritage Fleet. Alongside the cars, was a wide range of superbikes and vintage motorcycles, with a very special display by sponsors Andover Norton International.

The event’s Silver Sponsors, Boeing Defence UK provided a static display of a Chinook Mk5 and the Boeing AH-64E Apache AH1. This was the first time a Chinook has appeared at the event and was a fantastic opportunity for visitors to see one of the RAF’s most iconic helicopters and chat to the flight test crew and engineers.

The event showcased a number of interactive STEM activities in its Discovery Den, with hands on activities from GKN Aerospace, Sparsholt College, Boeing and Leonardo with lots to keep young minds buzzing, including GKN’s very own robot and the Tech Tour Bus from Sparsholt College who sponsored the event for the first time.

A shopping village showcased many local traders and visitors were treated to lots of great delights from local businesses including Saxnot Meadery, Homemade Brownie Company and Bluestone Vineyards and many more.

Lucy Johnson, Army Flying Museum CEO, said: We are so thrilled to have welcomed over 5000 people to our biggest and best-ever Wallop Wheels & Wings – to sell out in advance was such a huge achievement and shows how popular the event has become. This is the key event in the Museum’s fundraising calendar, and it is so important in helping to raise the profile of the Museum and the work that we do. It was fantastic to see so many happy, smiling faces despite the heat, and to see a record-breaking number of cars, bikes and aircraft join us on the day. It was great to see the delight on our visitors faces as they watched the spectacular displays taking place.”

The event may now be over for another year, but the Museum doesn’t have time to rest as they begin their busy summer holiday activities in earnest with a programme of fun activities – ‘A Summer of Flight’ celebrating their wide and diverse collection. For more information visit www.armyflying.com

Look Up! Helicopters set to swoop into Brooklands Museum for spectacular summer Fly-In

Tuesday 14 July 2026

Special all-helicopter Fly-In lands at Brooklands Museum on Thursday 20 August
See and hear helicopters arriving and departing throughout the day
Rare opportunity to get close to the aircraft and meet the people who fly them
Exciting summer holiday event included with standard Museum admission

The skies above Brooklands Museum will come alive this summer as a spectacular gathering of helicopters as they swoop in for a special all-helicopter Fly-In.

On Thursday 20 August, visitors will be able to watch the many varieties of helicopters arrive at the historic Brooklands site before getting the chance to see the aircraft up close on the ground.

From the distinctive sound of rotor blades approaching overhead to the excitement of watching the helicopters touch down, the event promises a thrilling day for families, aviation enthusiasts and photographers alike.

The action begins from 10am as helicopters arrive and land on the neighbouring airstrip at Mercedes-Benz World. Between 12noon and 2pm, visitors will be able to access the airstrip to view and photograph the aircraft at close quarters, before the helicopters take to the skies again from 2.30-3.30pm.

Ranging from compact two-seat training helicopters to military, executive and high-performance types. Among the stars of the day will be two Gazelles – the distinctive light helicopter with a long military history – alongside an EC135 military helicopter and an Airbus H125 Squirrel, a powerful and versatile machine used around the world.
Visitors will also be able to see a new Bell 505 and the famous Jet Ranger, one of the most recognisable helicopter designs of all time, as well as the MD500E and MD530F, both known as the ‘Ferrari’ of helicopters.

It will be a rare opportunity to experience helicopters from a completely different perspective – not simply as distant shapes in the sky, but close enough to appreciate their scale, engineering and extraordinary design.

Brooklands Museum CEO, Alex Patterson said: “Few things create excitement quite like the sound of a helicopter approaching overhead, and this promises to be a spectacular day at Brooklands Museum.
“Visitors will be able to experience the thrill of the aircraft arriving, get close to them on the ground and then watch as they take to the skies again. For children especially, it is a fantastic opportunity to see these incredible aircraft up close and enjoy an unforgettable summer holiday day out.”

The Helicopter Fly-In is included with standard Museum admission, giving visitors a full day to explore Brooklands Museum alongside the aerial action.

As part of the Summer of Speed, families can discover historic racing cars, motorcycles and aircraft, step aboard buses at the London Bus Museum and explore more than a century of speed, flight and innovation at the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit.
During the summer holidays a family interactive brand new STEM science show ‘Get Set Go!’ is taking place from Monday to Friday, and is included in the admission cost.

The event runs from 10am to 3.30pm on Thursday 20 August 2026. Parking is free and Brooklands Museum Members go free.

The Helicopter Fly-In is weather dependent. For more INFO and TICKETS

Spitfire anniversary excitement as Shuttleworth sees record sales for Summer Air Show

Shuttleworth crowd — *Credit: Oliver Lloyd*

Old Warden, 1 July 2026 – Shuttleworth, Bedfordshire visitor attraction and event venue home to some of the world’s oldest airworthy examples of historic aircraft and Regency Swiss Garden, has seen a record increase in ticket sales (up over 120% in June 2026 in comparison to June 2025) for its Summer Air Show on 25 July 2026, with just under a month still to go to the event.

This success reflects the passion of the British public for the Spitfire, as this year’s event celebrates the 90th anniversary of the first flight of the Spitfire, the WWII legend that played a key role in the Battle of Britain and D-Day. To commemorate this iconic aircraft, Shuttleworth will have ten Spitfires flying, representing different marks as the Spitfire evolved throughout WWII. Many of the exact Spitfires confirmed to be flying at Shuttleworth saw real action in WWII, including during the build-up and aftermath of the Normandy landings and the evacuation of Dunkirk.

Beyond the Spitfire celebration, Shuttleworth will be joined by other visiting aircraft, including a Hispano Buchon used in the film Dunkirk, a Boeing 727, andEurope’s only airworthy MiG-17F, an aircraft which played a significant role in Polish Military Aviation during the Cold War. A range of aircraft from Shuttleworth’s own collection of aircraft ranging from 1909-1950s will also fly at the event.

There will also be a range of ground attractions, including a funfair with a big wheel, teacups, and trampolines, Clayton & Shuttleworth heritage exhibits, the Bofors anti-aircraft gun, educational Discovery Zones, and vintage bus rides. Shuttleworth’s Swiss Garden will also be open for visitors to explore.

Marc Boult, Head of Visitor Operations at Shuttleworth, commented: “The excitement of visitors whenever a Spitfire takes to the skies at our air shows speaks volumes about its lasting significance. Reaching this record level of sales means we can go even further in delivering our charitable objectives.”

For more details on Shuttleworth’s Summer Air Show and how to book, visit: https://www.shuttleworth.org/events/summer-air-show

All aircraft appearances are subject to weather and serviceability.

Robotics, AI and Aviation Take Flight at RAF Museum Summer Camp

This summer, the RAF Museum Midlands is inviting young people aged 11–13 to take part in an exciting five-day RAF Summer Camp, packed with hands-on STEM activities in a unique aviation setting.

Delivered in partnership with Tablet Academy, the immersive programme will inspire the next generation of innovators through science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Participants will explore robotics, flight, coding, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and team-based engineering challenges, all while learning in the inspiring surroundings of the RAF Museum.

With just 20 places available each week, the RAF Summer Camp will run from 27–31 July and 3–7 August, from 9.45am to 4.00pm daily. The camp costs £140 per child and includes all workshop materials, activities and a certificate of achievement.

Throughout the week, participants will take part in a series of engaging challenges and projects, including:

Monday – LEGO Engineering & Aeronautics

Build a vehicle capable of pulling an aircraft using LEGO Spike Prime technology
Discover how real-world aeronautical systems work and recreate them through robotics
Hands-on Museum walk exploring aircraft engineering systems.

Tuesday – Digital Creations & Virtual Spaces

Experiment with AI generative tools and create your own designs with Adobe Express
Create and explore immersive virtual environments using CoSpaces and VR technology.

Wednesday – Tech Adventures in Minecraft & Robotics

Navigate the skies in Minecraft with the Elytra Flight Challenge
Dive into design thinking with Sphero Blueprints and robotics challenges.

Thursday – Cyber Secrets & AI Exploration

Step into the world of wartime codebreaking and learn the fundamentals of cybersecurity
Train your own AI models using Teachable Machines.

Friday – Ultimate Build Challenge

Put the week’s learning into practice in a full day building challenge
Working in teams, innovate and create impressive projects to showcase and take home.

The RAF Summer Camp offers a fun and engaging way for young people to develop valuable STEM skills, build confidence and work collaboratively, while exploring the fascinating worlds of aviation and technology.

To book a place, visit rafmuseum.org/midlands. The camp is suitable for children aged 11–13. All equipment and materials are provided; participants should bring their own food and drinks each day.

Royal International Air Tattoo announces Tiger Gathering theme for next summer

Next summer’s Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) is set to burst into life with colour, character and heritage as it announces ‘Tiger Gathering’ as one of its headline themes for 2027.

Marking 50 years since the Silver Tiger Trophy was originally presented by the International Air Tattoo to the NATO Tiger Association, RIAT27 will host a special anniversary gathering of NATO Tiger units. Visitors can expect a vibrant line-up of aircraft from across the alliance, many adorned in the striking tiger markings that have become a hallmark of this unique aviation community.

The NATO Tiger Association is renowned for its spirit of camaraderie, professionalism and creativity – with specially painted aircraft forming one of its most celebrated traditions. RIAT27 will bring this spectacle to life on a global stage, with a rare opportunity to see multiple tiger-themed aircraft displayed together.

Peter Reoch, Head of Air Operations at Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises, said:
“The 50th anniversary of the Silver Tiger Trophy is a fantastic milestone and a brilliant opportunity for us to celebrate the heritage and enduring spirit of the NATO Tiger Association at RIAT.

“The Tiger Meet community is renowned for its energy, colour and personality. Bringing that to RIAT means our visitors can look forward to an unforgettable experience – a ramp full of some of the most eye-catching military aircraft anywhere in the world.”

Each year, RIAT brings together over 200 aircraft and nearly 200,000 visitors from across the globe, offering an unforgettable day out for families and visitors of all ages. Beyond the spectacle, the event raises vital funds for the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, supporting its mission to inspire young people in air, space and technology.

Tiger Gathering will be just one part of what promises to be an exciting and varied RIAT27 programme, with further themes and attractions to be announced later this year.

“It takes years of planning to deliver an event on the scale of RIAT,” added Peter. “Although RIAT27 may seem some way off, our team is already working hard to shape an exceptional show.

“Alongside Tiger Gathering, we have several other exciting themes in development, and we look forward to sharing more details as plans continue to take shape.” For more information, visit www.AirTattoo.com

Historic Croydon Airport Dates

Make Your Own de Havilland Comet!

This is a creative, engaging session for children aged 5yrs+ and is inspired by record-breaking aviatrix, Amy Johnson CBE.

Children can construct a model of plane that Amy Johnson flew in the MacRobertson Air Race!

Children can find out about Amy Johnson’s part, with her husband Jim Mollison, in the MacRobertson Air Race of 1934 when many pilots raced across the world from England to Australia! Children will construct their very own models of the space-age looking plane Amy and Jim flew, the DH.88 Comet, ‘Black Magic’

The session is delivered by Jenny Lockyer, experienced facilitator and Creative Director of FLY: The Amy Johnson Festival of Inspiration.

https://www.flyfestival.co.uk

FLY was created to elevate and celebrate Amy’s legacy and inspire people with her story. As the first woman to fly solo from England to Australia and the second woman in the world to qualify as a ground engineer, Amy’s story begins with defying the odds. In her own words she was an ordinary woman who did extraordinary things!

Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

These are 1hr workshop sessions.

There are four sessions across the day, please book onto your chosen time slot.

10:30-11:30

11:45-12:45

13:45-14:45

15:00-16:00

PLEASE NOTE:

Please book ahead!

You can avoid booking fees ahead of the day by joining the FLY Festival mailing list. Please email Jenny at FLYFestivaldirector@outlook.com

This workshop is taking place at The Croydon Airport Open day on Sunday 2nd August but is bookable SEPARATELY. Please book your open day tickets here: https://www.historiccroydonairport.org.uk

If you just want to attend a workshop and not the Open Day that’s fine, just book onto the time slot of your choice.

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FLY Festival is busy working to raise funds for activities elevating the legacy of the incredible Amy Johnson, whose story cannot fail to inspire. As we head towards the 2030 centenary of Amy’s solo flight from England to Australia, FLY is hard at work to bring to life an exciting national event for this very special anniversary.

https://www.flyfestival.co.uk

Historic Croydon Airport Trust have been running their very popular open days for years now, attracting visitors to this iconic Art Deco building, the UK’s first international airport and seat of modern aviation. In the golden age of flying pioneers, it was from this aerodrome that a string of international record-breaking flights began, including those of Amy Johnson, first woman to fly solo from England to Australia in 1930.

‘Wings & Whiskers’ Charity Evening to Launch the ‘Headcorn International Airshow’ Weekend in Style

A unique and exciting new charity event, Wings & Whiskers, will set the tone for an unforgettable weekend ahead of the Headcorn International Airshow, taking place at Headcorn Aerodrome this coming Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th June.

Kicking off the festivities on Friday 26th June (7pm–11pm), this special evening event will be hosted in the exclusive Mustang Lounge, offering guests a relaxed summer atmosphere filled with entertainment, aviation heritage, and fundraising — all in support of the incredible work of The Big Cat Sanctuary.

With 600 guests expected, Wings & Whiskers promises to be one of Kent’s most distinctive charity evenings, combining live music, immersive experiences, and spectacular surroundings.

Event Highlights Include:

A sensational Michael Bublé tribute live performance courtesy of Jason Allen
A stunning North American P-51 Mustang displayed in the lounge, painted as the legendary “Moonbeam McSwine” — the aircraft of William T. Whisner, a triple ace of the Second World War. The Mustang itself became one of the most important long-range fighters of the war, escorting bombers deep into Germany and helping secure Allied air superiority. Fast, powerful, and iconic, it remains one of aviation’s most celebrated aircraft
Jeep rides and unique access experiences
A rare opportunity to tour “The Big Cat” the iconic PBY Catalina — a remarkable Second World War aircraft with a rich operational history. Built in Canada in 1943, it served with the Royal Canadian Air Force on the Pacific coast, flying vital day and night anti-submarine patrols during a time of real invasion threat. Operating from remote bases in British Columbia, it played a crucial role in defending North America’s western shores. Today, it stands as a beautifully preserved and rare example of a true wartime veteran
A fully stocked bar alongside street food trucks
Comfortable marquee seating and outdoor garden space
The magical sight of aircraft arriving across the airfield at sunset

Tickets are priced at £30, with 100% of proceeds going directly to The Big Cat Sanctuary, helping to support vital conservation and animal welfare work.

As anticipation builds for the weekend’s flying displays, Wings & Whiskers offers the perfect way to begin the celebrations — blending entertainment, community spirit, and a meaningful cause.

Come for the music. Support the big cats. Start the airshow weekend in style.

To book tickets visit thebigcatsanctuary.org/events/

RAF Museum named Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards winner for 2026

The RAF Museum London and Midlands are now ranked among Tripadvisor’s top 10% of attractions worldwide, as recognised in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards for 2026.

As the world’s largest travel guidance platform, Tripadvisor has unparalleled authority with travellers and diners. This award is based on genuine feedback from anyone in the community who has visited and left an authentic, first-hand review on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period, making it a valuable and trustworthy designation of travellers’ favourites.

Barry Smith, Director of Commercial and Visitor Services at the RAF Museum said:

‘We are delighted that both RAF Museum sites have been recognised among travellers’ favourites this year. As one of the travel industry’s most prestigious accolades, Travellers’ Choice is particularly meaningful because it is based on the feedback of our visitors. Being ranked among the top 10% of attractions worldwide is a tremendous achievement and reflects the commitment of our staff and volunteers to delivering memorable and inspiring experiences every day. We are immensely grateful to everyone who has taken the time to share their positive reviews and support our museums.’

Matt Dacey, Chief Marketing Officer at Tripadvisor said:

‘Congratulations to the RAF Museum on its recognition in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards for 2026. Ranking among the top percentage of businesses globally means you have made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many of them took time to go online and leave a glowing review about their experience. We hope this recognition continues to drive business to you in 2026 and beyond.’

This award follows recent recognition from Which?, who named RAF Museum Midlands a Recommended Provider and rated it joint top among UK museums. While the RAF Museum London received the joint highest visitor score for any museum or gallery in London.

The RAF Museum is committed to delivering outstanding visitor experiences while sharing the stories of the Royal Air Force and its people with audiences of all ages. To plan a visit and enjoy a free family day out at one of the UK’s top-rated museums, visit rafmuseum.org. The Museum is open daily from 10.00am and entry is free.