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Kids staying safe online thanks to RAFCT partnership

Young people across the UK are set to be given tips on how to stay safe online following an initiative delivered by Tech She Can in partnership with the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust (RAFCT).

Children from schools across the country will be taking part in a live lesson on Safer Internet Day, which will help keep children safe online and includes expertise from Minecraft Education.

The session is delivered by qualified teachers and will see pupils explore how to stay safe when gaming and using AI, as well as learning more about careers in tech and online safety.

Last year saw more than 65,000 young people across the UK join the lessons, and this year is expected to be equally busy, with multiple sessions running across the day. New for 2026 is a live assembly for KS1 children.

Dr Kevin P Stenson, Director at the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust said: “We are delighted to once again be partnering with Tech She Can on Safer Internet Day as a route to increasing the number and diversity of young people pursuing STEM subjects post 16+ and entering tech careers.

“Technology is a powerful tool to support learning and creativity, and we want to help young people to develop the digital literacy and critical thinking their future careers will require, whilst empowering them to do so safely and responsibly

“Children aged 8–14 spend almost three hours online every day on phones, tablets and computers and this increases as children get older*.

“Games console use is also another way that young people spend time online and that’s why we’re including gaming as part of the lesson this year.”

RAFCT is based in Gloucestershire and is powered by the world’s largest military airshow, the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) which is hosted at RAF Fairford.

It aims to inspire young people from 5 to 25 to fulfil their potential in air, space and technology, and to promote the RAF.

The reach afforded to RAFCT by RIAT puts it in a unique position to bring together the defence, aviation and technology sectors with charities and other organisations working to bring the world of STEM, aviation and space to life for young people.

Becky Patel, Head of Education and Learning at Tech She Can said: “As technology becomes an everyday part of young people’s lives, it’s vital they feel confident and safe online.

“Our partnership with the RAF Charitable Trust allows us to reach thousands of children with engaging, teacher-led lessons that encourage responsible online behaviour, digital skills, and inspire all children, no matter background, to see a future for themselves in tech. “By combining expert-led teaching with real-world examples and inspiring career pathways, these live lessons empower children to use technology safely and responsibly, while showing them that a future in tech is both achievable and exciting.”

TechSheCan

RIAT25 in action – the aftermovie is now live!

Relive the thrill of RIAT25 with our spectacular aftermovie, and experience the moments that made last year unforgettable. From breathtaking flying displays to incredible static aircraft and inspiring Techno Zone® exhibits, it’s all captured in one action-packed film.

Watch the aftermovie

Make sure RIAT26 is in your calendar – last chance for 10% off!

Secure your RIAT26 tickets today – Friday and Sunday general admission tickets are currently at Early Bird prices, and many of our enclosures have special discounts on offer – available for a limited time only. Now is the time to ensure you get the best price available.

Cotswold Club Sunday – 10% off ends midnight, Tuesday 10th Feb
Flight Deck Sunday – 10% off ends midnight, Wednesday 11th Feb

Don’t miss out – grab your tickets now before the discount drops to 5%!

Book Tickets

The FRIAT ticket package delivers the ultimate airshow experience. Enjoy private facilities, grandstand views with allocated seating, and unbeatable access to the world’s most exciting aircraft.

Missed out on Park & View? Good news – a FRIAT ticket gives you full six-day access, from the first aircraft arrival to the final departure on Monday, so you won’t miss a moment of the action.

Highlights:

Discount on RIAT merchandise within the FRIAT enclosure
Friday 18th, Saturday 19th, Sunday 20th July general admission to the showground and access to the FRIAT enclosure
Allocated Grandstand seat in the FRIAT enclosure
Free RIAT Official Souvenir Programme
Free Left Luggage Facility
Wi-Fi access available within the FRIAT enclosure

Please note:

Children are classed as under 18 years of age and will be charged 50% of the adult price. All children must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder. Children under the age of 5 are not permitted in the FRIAT enclosure.

FRIAT tickets on sale now

Last chance for Super Early Bird Friday tickets!

Grab your Super Early Bird Friday tickets before prices change at midnight on Sunday 1st February – you won’t want to miss out on all the action this year.

While you’re gearing up for the summer, relive the highlights that made last year unforgettable with the RIAT25 after movie, touching down on our socials next Thursday at 12pm. Keep your eyes peeled.

Book RIAT26 Tickets

Why RIAT26 should be in your calendar

If you love aviation, RIAT isn’t just another airshow – it’s an experience in the air, on the ground and all around.

Here’s why over 175,000 fans from around the world make the journey every year:

RIAT is the world’s largest military airshow
Aircraft from dozens of international air forces attend the show
There’s loads of family-friendly activities and interactive zones
Unmatched photography opportunities
Award-winning flying displays

Tickets are on sale now and selling faster than ever. From front-row thrills to premium hospitality, there’s a RIAT26 ticket option for everyone:

General Admission:

Full airshow access
Up-close static aircraft
Flying display viewing areas
Food courts
Under 18s go free

Enclosures (depending on your chosen package):

Best views
Dedicated seating
Private toilets
Luggage facilities
Catering options
Luxury lounges
All-inclusive cocktail bar (Altitude)
Gourmet dining
All-day comfort

Please note: Not all benefits listed above are included in every enclosure. Please check individual hospitality packages for full details.

Whether you’re bringing the family, wanting to shoot the perfect photo of your favourite aircraft, or want to treat yourself to a unique weekend, we’ve got you covered.

We look forward to welcoming you to RIAT26! The RIAT Team

Choose the right tickets for you

Behind-the-Scenes Access at Shuttleworth’s Engineering Open Workshop

Shuttleworth Workshops — *Photo by Oliver Lloyd*

Workshop barriers are removed, giving a rare chance to inspect historic aircraft and engineering in intimate detail
Activities including flight simulators and immersive VR
Temporary exhibition ‘In focus: The Sopwith & Hawker Story’ running 14-22 February

Old Warden, 29 January 2026 – For one weekend only, on 21 and 22 February, barriers will be removed at Shuttleworth’s engineering workshop, giving guests a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to restore, rebuild and operate one of the world’s most extensive collections of working vintage agricultural exhibits, veteran and vintage vehicles, and airworthy aircraft from the earliest days of flight. A packed programme is scheduled, including talks and demonstrations from expert engineers, vintage bus rides, engineering-focused activities, and tours of the hangars and Shuttleworth House, amongst other activities.

A temporary exhibition titled ‘In Focus: The Sopwith & Hawker Story’ celebrating Sopwith and Hawker aircraft, featuring six of Shuttleworth’s own iconic Collection aircraft, including the 1918 Sopwith F.1 Camel (which will have an engine ground run on Engineering Open Workshop weekend) and the 1941 Hawker Sea Hurricane Ib, will also exclusively take place on 14-22 February – with barriers coming down around the exhibition during the Workshop event.

Featured exhibits

Visitors will be able to get up close to wartime fighters Supermarine Spitfire Vc and Bristol M.1C as well as the unique Southern Martlet which will be on display. Additionally on view in the workshop will be aircraft currently undergoing restoration including the Percival Mew Gull, English Electric Wren, and Deperdussin, offering guests a rare look inside the intricate mechanics that keep these historic machines flying. Shuttleworth’s in-house team of engineers will also demonstrate an engine ground run on the Sopwith F.1 Camel as well as the Hucks Starter on the Hawker Hind – which has recently undergone an extensive overhaul and is now repainted in the colours of 605 Squadron, serial K5533.

The workshop will also showcase a fascinating range of historic vehicles and machinery, including the ABC Motorcycle, the 1899 Marot-Gardon Quadricycle, a 1900 Locomobile, a Ford Model A Truck, and a Leyland Bus Engine. Visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences with interactive attractions such as Studebaker car rides and the Bofors anti-aircraft gun. In steam will be the Clayton & Shuttleworth portable steam engine powering the thrashing set as well as the ever-popular traction engine “Phoenix”, and the newly acquired steam wagon “The Fenland Princess”.

Hands-on, engineering activities and challenges

Various invited partner organisations will present an exciting range of engineering-focused activities suitable for all ages. Visitors will have the chance to take the controls in flight simulators, delve into Bedford’s airship heritage with immersive VR experiences, practice traditional English wheeling, craft and paint scale models, and put their skills to the test by diagnosing aircraft engine faults.

Showcasing their engineering prowess, the WorldSkills UK team will undertake a trial run of aeronautical engineering challenges against the clock in preparation for competing in the 48th WorldSkills championships in Shanghai, China this September.

‘In focus: The Sopwith & Hawker Story’ temporary exhibition

From 14-22 February, a temporary exhibition in Hangar Four will take place, bringing into focus the pioneering legacy of the Sopwith Aviation Company and Hawker Aircraft Limited, highlighting their designs and contributions to aviation history. Visitors can explore iconic aircraft, learn about the engineers and designers who brought them to life, and discover how these legendary companies shaped flight. For Engineering Open Workshop weekend, the barriers will be removed around the exhibition, allowing guests to admire the aircraft even more closely.

Jean-Michel Munn, Head of Engineering, commented:

“Engineering Open Workshop is the first big event of 2026 for Shuttleworth’s engineering team, and we’re looking forward to showcasing our current restoration projects in progress at the workshop as well as the rest of our iconic Collection. In contrast to the spectacle of our air shows, it’s fantastic to be able to welcome the public to our workshop to appreciate the skill, patience and passion which keeps these historic aircraft able to fly.”

Under 18s tickets are free for this event, with adult tickets at £25 (and £20 for members), available to book here.

RIAT merchandise sale is ending soon – don’t miss out

The countdown to RIAT26 is on, and there’s no better way to get ready than with official RIAT merchandise – on sale until the end of January!

Whether you’re counting down to this year’s show, want to commemorate last year’s show, or search for the perfect gift for an aviation enthusiast, our merchandise sale has something for you.

Shop our top picks below or browse the full sale. Don’t miss out, the sale stock is limited and once it’s gone, it’s gone.

Shop Merch Sale

Experience RIAT in Comfort with the Aviation Club

A firm favourite with many of our guests, the Aviation Club offers a smart yet relaxed hospitality experience, perfect for those looking to enjoy the show in comfort while staying close to the heart of the action.

What’s included:

On-base car parking
Private marquee, garden and grandstand
Light breakfast
Two-course buffet lunch
Light afternoon tea
Complimentary tea, coffee and infusions
Complimentary souvenir programme
Private toilets

Discounts available now (already applied):

5% off Friday
5% off Sunday

Please note:

Children aged 5 and over require a ticket
Under 5s are not permitted

Treat yourself to a truly memorable Air Tattoo experience with the Aviation Club. Already have a General Admission ticket? You can book your upgrade separately.

Gloucestershire schoolchildren reimagine the future of flight with Royal Air Force Charitable Trust workshop

Schoolchildren in Cheltenham were tasked with creating a new sustainable aircraft as part of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust (RAFCT)’s Road to RIAT programme.

More than 50 children at Naunton Park Primary School took part in the session, where they were asked to design a new aircraft of the future as part of a national competition, which culminates at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) in July this year.

The Gloucestershire youngsters will see their entries pitted against pupils from across the country, with RAFCT, parent charity of RIAT estimating over 35,000 young people will be taking part in the competition.

The free programme, which has been running since 2020 in partnership with RAF Youth STEM and The Smallpeice Trust, is part of a wider portfolio made possible by RAFCT as they aim to inspire young people to fulfil their potential in air, space and technology.

Mike Steward, Deputy Headteacher at Naunton Primary School, said: “Sessions such as these are so valuable for children, enabling them to interact with experts in STEM.

“The competitive element really engages and inspires them as well as developing their resilience which can then be transferred to other areas of their lives.”

Last year RAFCT, the UK-wide charity based in Gloucestershire, agreed over 15 partnerships with different organisations, as they continue to reach more and more young people.

In 2022 the charity announced it was aiming to reach 500,000 young people by this summer, however, they have already surpassed their initial target, reaching over 750,000 with almost six months to go.

Hannah Hickman, Grant Relationship Manager at RAFCT, said: “We’re delighted to see Road to RIAT continuing to grow, with 600 primary schools taking part across the UK this year.

“As our flagship Key Stage 2 initiative, it perfectly demonstrates how RAFCT’s work, powered by RIAT, creates impact far beyond the showground, bringing the excitement of aviation and space straight into classrooms across the UK.

“The programme reflects RAFCT’s commitment to tackling the national skills gap by inspiring young people from the age of five to explore their potential in air, space, and technology, and to consider future pathways into STEM careers.”

www.airtattoo.com

Army Flying Museum launches new speaker series

Following on from their successful Autumn season, the Army Flying Museum at Middle Wallop hopes to continue bringing new audiences through its doors with another fabulous series of daytime and evening talks.

The popular speaker series at the Museum was developed in 2025 to include a monthly daytime talk programme and has continued to go from strength to strength, attracting a wide range of speakers showing their support for the Museum which has made a significant impact on the local tourism sector over the last few years.

The speaker series kicks off in January with return visits from Military Historian and Battlefield Guide Mike Peters and former RAF fast jet pilot and author Mandy Hickson. In what is set to be a remarkable talk in February, Dr Tony Insall will tell the story of Captain Gilbert Insall, the only person to have both won a Victoria Cross and to have escaped successfully from a German prisoner-of-war camp during the First World War.

For those interested in modern technology, don’t miss a mesmerising talk by Mike Roberts from Leonardo as he shares the fascinating story of Proteus, one of the world’s most exciting autonomous military aviation programmes, from its concept to the race against weather to fly Proteus in 2025.

The Spring season of talks culminates with a thrilling talk – SAS-Sea King Down – where visitors will join Mark Aston at the Museum or online for a nail-biting, edge-of-your-seat true story of one soldier’s Special Forces operations in the Falklands War.

As a special event this year, the Museum will collaborate with Veteran Voices to tell the story of the Iranian Embassy Siege. This rare live event from a Red Troop assault veteran has never been told live before, only via podcast, and visitors will also have the opportunity to see a replica scale-model of the embassy.

Chris Keeber from Veteran Voices said “Veteran Voices is proud to be working with the Army Flying Museum to deliver this event, providing a veteran of Operation Nimrod with the platform to tell his firsthand account”

With monthly daytime talks on subjects including the Supermarine Seaplane, the Youngest Bomber Pilot of World War Two and the story of the secret underground bunker and how it helped to win the Battle of Britain, there is definitely lots taking place at the Museum this Spring for military enthusiasts and history fans alike.

The launch of this programme follows on from the successful programme of events that the Museum staged in 2025, with visitor figures looking certain to hit record numbers for the second consecutive year.

Chief Executive of the Army Flying Museum Lucy Johnson said: “It has been wonderful to see so many new faces through our doors, not only to enjoy our wide-ranging speaker series, but also to learn about the history of British Army aviation and enjoy the sights on the adjacent airfield as the Apache helicopters fly by. We are really excited about our collaboration with Veteran Voices, and this is set to be a very special evening at the Museum.”

www.armyflying.com

Happy New Year from everyone at RIAT!

As we step into a brand-new year, we’re already looking ahead with excitement to RIAT26. We can’t wait to share what’s in store and welcome you back for another unforgettable show.

Take Off Thursday starts in a few weeks’ time, so keep an eye on your inbox and on our social media channels for all the exciting aircraft announcements.

Book RIAT26 Tickets

Explore the January sale

Don’t worry if you missed our Black Friday sale, there’s still a chance for you to enjoy some fantastic savings. Our Boxing Day merchandise sale will continue throughout January. It’s the perfect opportunity to refresh your RIAT wardrobe, add to your aviation collection, or pick up a gift for a fellow enthusiast.

Discover official RIAT merchandise at discounted prices while stocks last (sale ends midnight Sunday 1st February).

Order dispatch restarts: Week commencing Monday 5th January.

Merch January Sale

A Very Merry Christmas from RIAT

As the year draws to a close, everyone at RIAT would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy festive season.

With so many great moments behind us, we’re already building excitement for what’s ahead. RIAT26 is on the horizon – and there’s plenty to look forward to.

Keep your eyes peeled in the new year for some exciting announcements as we begin to reveal what’s in store… including the return of Take off Thursday in February!

Book RIAT26 Tickets

Customer Services over the festive break

Please note that our Customer Services phonelines will be closed from 5pm (GMT) Monday 22nd December 2025 until 9am (GMT) Monday 5th January 2026.

The Customer Services email enquiries@rafcte.com and the website chat service will be monitored on Tuesday 23rd December and Friday 2nd January only.

Brooklands Museum’s 2026 Events Calendar & Grand Prix Centenary

2026 marks the 100^th anniversary of Britain’s 1^st Grand Prix, held at Brooklands Race Circuit. It will be a year of celebrations, including a special event on 8 August 2026, to honour the speed, passion and heritage at the original home of British motorsport.

Alongside the centenary celebrations the Museum’s events programme is set to be as busy as ever, offering many memorable days for motoring and aviation enthusiasts and families alike.

Our ever-popular New Year’s Day Classic Gathering kick-starts the season on 1 January, the first of three Classic Gatherings in 2026. This will be followed by the Easter Classic Gathering on 4 April and later the Summer Classic Gathering and Autojumble on 26 July, where enthusiasts can peruse and grab a bargain amongst the large array of trade stands.

Witness competitive action at several events throughout the year including the Vintage Sports Car Club’s annual Driving Tests on 8 February where drivers will tackle complicated courses around the historic site. Later, the Brooklands National Autotest returns for its second year on 2 August featuring Championship drivers take on challenging manoeuvres in timed tests. And not forgetting, the Brooklands Relived – Festival of Motorsport weekend on 13-14 June that steps back into Brooklands’ hey-day. Featuring Sprints on Mercedes-Benz World track, Autotests on the Finishing Straight, Pride of Brooklands Concours, race starts and Test Hill ascents – the site will come alive with the roar of engines. Alongside the motoring action, visitors of all ages can enjoy live vintage themed music, costume and food, dancing and traditional family games, to truly reignite the spirit of Brooklands!

Another highlight for 2026 will be the highly anticipated Aviation Day, returning to Brooklands after a hiatus on 13 September, transforming the site to all things aeronautical with exciting displays in store.

As ever, Brooklands Museum will celebrate marques from across the globe including firm favourites Italian Day on 2 May, American Day on 30 August and German Day on 27 September. Furthermore, following the successful introduction of Japanese Day in 2025, it will be returning earlier in 2026 on 21 June. Explore the full range of marque specific events on the website, which will be complimented with busy trade and food stands alongside entertainment, sure to make a fun day out for all generations.

Special guests will be returning to delight our younger fans including Paddington Bear at Best of British on 25 May, which combines the best of British manufacturing alongside traditional British family entertainment. Popular children’s characters Bluey and Bingo will be joining for special guest appearances on 18 July at Working Vehicles Day, where the site will be filled with working machines such as tractors, mobile cranes, airfield vehicles and more. And the annual favourite Emergency Services Day on 19 September, gives everyone a chance to see the everyday heroes of our country as well as exciting demonstrations, together with PAW Patrol’s Skye, Chase and Marshall coming back to say hello.

Don’t miss the usual favourites, including Mini Day on 22 March, Motorcycle Day on 5 July and Motorsport Day on11 October, alongside London Bus Museum’s three popular events – Spring Gathering, 19 April, Summer Festival, 28 June and Transportfest, 18 October. Finishing the season will see the return of Off Road Day on 1 November where anyone with an off road vehicle can challenge themselves on the off road course at Mercedes-Benz World and ascend the famous Test Hill.

Tickets for the whole year are available now and there is so much more to discover in the 2026 programme. See the full calendar on the website for the planned fly ins, evening talks, club and rally meets, and get involved in the Grand Prix themed activities throughout the school holidays to celebrate this special centenary year.

With our amazing value membership you can enjoy unlimited admission all year round including a large list of events. Plus, there are a range of benefits including a members’ magazine and selected special discounts. As a registered charity and protected heritage site, a Brooklands membership goes a long way in helping preserve the original home of British motorsport and aviation, and to continue inspiring future generations.

Make 2026 memorable – fantastic days out await at Brooklands.

EXPLORE THE 2026 CALENDAR