UK Airshow News – Page 2

Shuttleworth’s flagship air show, Festival of Flight, returns for 2026

Shuttleworth Messerschmidt — *Image by Philipp Prinzing*

Old Warden, 5 June 2026 – Festival of Flight, Shuttleworth’s flagship air show, is back on 27 and 28 June 2026. The two-day spectacular features a stellar line up of breath-taking air displays from the very best UK and international display aircraft as well as all of Shuttleworth’s serviceable Collection aircraft. This year’s show also sees more free ground attractions than ever before.

Rare display aircraft, including a UK air show debut

Making its UK air show debut will be the only Messerschmitt Bf 109 E-4 flying in Europe. The aircraft is an example of the front-line fighter flown by Nazi Germany’s Luftwaffe during the Battle of Britain, sharing a strong military history with Britain’s Spitfire. This specific aircraft was recovered in 1993 from Russia, where it had crash landed in January 1942.

Many of the visiting aircraft at Festival of Flight are the only airworthy models of their kind in Europe and the world. This includes the world’s only airworthy Avro Anson Mk.I and the world’s only airworthy Bristol Blenheim, as well as Europe’s last remaining airworthy B-17G Flying Fortress.

Red Bull’s The Flying Bulls will also display five of its fleet, including the rare warbird Lockheed P-38L Lightning with its unconventional twin tail, and the eye-catching Grumman F8F-2 Bearcat. For fans of Royal Air Force aircraft, the Eurofighter Typhoon will join Shuttleworth for the Sunday of Festival of Flight.

Trailblazing female pilot Mélanie Astles, the first and only woman to compete in the Red Bull Air Race and the first female pilot to win a Red Bull Air Race event (Challenger Class, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, 2017), will perform an aerobatic display in her Extra 330SC on both days. In addition to her breathtaking display in the sky, visitors will have the opportunity to hear Astles speak in inspiring Q&A sessions tailored for younger audiences.

More ground attractions than ever before, all included in the price of visitors’ tickets

Festival of Flight 2026 sees more free ground attractions than ever before, with fun fair rides, archery, axe throwing, circus skills workshops, and a land train amongst the scheduled entertainment. Shuttleworth’s own Fire Service will showcase their skills, with visitors having the chance to take part in hands-on demonstrations, and there will be live demonstrations from various heritage exhibits from Clayton & Shuttleworth – one of the early builders of portable steam engines and thrashing machines. Younger visitors will be able to enjoy an array of STEM-focused educational activities at Shuttleworth’s Discovery Zones spread across the site. Visitors can also enjoy vintage bus rides and explore Shuttleworth House and Swiss Garden, making the event a full day out for the whole family.

Marc Boult, Head of Visitor Operations at Shuttleworth, commented: “Everyone at Shuttleworth is super excited for Festival of Flight. Each year we actively build on the feedback we receive and further develop our air shows, so our events just keep getting better and better, and Festival of Flight is a prime example of this. We have a variety of top-quality, world-renowned rare aircraft joining us, and our ground attraction offering continues to grow, making the event a summer staple for aviation enthusiasts as well as families looking for an action-packed day out.”

To find out more about Festival of Flight and book your tickets, click here.

NEW RAF Museum aircraft to make first appearance at Cosford Air Show

The RAF Museum Midlands will showcase three NEW aircraft acquisitions at the RAF Cosford Air Show on Sunday 14 June. The British Aerospace Hawk T1A, General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper and Westland Puma HC1 will go on static display in the Museum’s enclosure on the airfield, alongside the iconic Chinook ‘Bravo November’, to complete an incredible line-up of RAF aircraft.

Visitors attending this year’s Air Show will be the first to see the Museum’s new Hawk, Reaper and Puma. Following their appearance at the Air Show all three aircraft will be stored before going on permanent display in the Museum’s forthcoming exhibition ‘The RAF: 1980 to Today’. This new exhibition is part of a sitewide transformation, made possible with the support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The new acquisitions were recently transported by the Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron (JARTS) by road to RAF Cosford, where they are currently being reassembled, ready for their first public appearance. Thanks go to the RAF Museum’s Technicians, Babcock (RAF Shawbury and RAF Cosford), and MOD colleagues for their support with preparing the airframes for Air Show.

The Hawk was an advanced jet trainer that entered RAF service in 1976. In 1979, it was selected as the replacement for the Folland Gnat as the aircraft flown by the RAF Aerobatic Team, otherwise known as the Red Arrows. The Reaper entered service with the RAF in 2007 and was its first combat-capable remotely piloted aircraft system or ‘drone’. The Reaper’s ability to loiter over targets undetected has given it an invaluable role in intelligence gathering and precision strike operations in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria. The Reaper retired from global RAF operations in 2025 following 18 years’ service. The Puma is a French-designed, medium-lift helicopter, that was in service with the RAF from 1971 to 2025. Over an incredible 54 year history, the Puma has served on a staggering range of operations.

Tom Hopkins, RAF Museum Curator (Aircraft and Exhibits) said:

‘We are delighted to announce the acquisition of these remarkable aircraft and look forward to sharing them with aviation enthusiasts at this year’s Cosford Air Show. Each represents a significant chapter in RAF history, whether that’s the Hawk which continues to inspire audiences as part of the world-famous Red Arrows display team, or the Puma which has more than five decades of distinguished RAF service. The recently retired Reaper will become the first aircraft of its type to enter a UK museum collection, and while it will be some time before these aircraft go on permanent display at the Museum, we are excited to offer Cosford Air Show visitors this exclusive early preview.’

In addition to the aircraft line-up, there will be plenty more on offer for families visiting the Museum’s enclosure. Exclusively for the Cosford Air Show, aviation fans can get on board the legendary Chinook ‘Bravo November’, for a small donation. Known as ‘The Survivor’, Bravo November earned its reputation during the 1982 liberation of the Falkland Islands. After the MS Atlantic Conveyor was struck by a missile and later sank, Bravo November was the sole Chinook to survive, going on to play a crucial role in the conflict.

Families can also enjoy access to a replica Spitfire cockpit, try on RAF uniforms and hats, test out their coding abilities with interactive robotics activities, and browse an extensive retail offer with many exclusive items. Elsewhere on the airfield, the Museum’s Harrier GR3 and Wessex will also be making an appearance.

Air Show ticket holders will also benefit from an exclusive Museum offer. Enjoy free parking on a return visit to the Museum and a two for one offer on 4D Theatre rides. Simply present your Air Show ticket when registering your vehicle on arrival at the Museum, and at the point of purchase to receive the two for one 4D Theatre offer.

With just over a week to go, the Cosford Air Show is close to selling out with just a few tickets remaining. To purchase tickets, go tocosfordairshow.co.uk.

Urgent Update on this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo

It is with great disappointment that we are letting you know this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo will not be taking place.

We understand how much RIAT means to so many people; our visitors, volunteers, partners, and the wider community who return year after year. We know the memories, traditions, and anticipation that build around the event.

This has not been an easy decision. It follows extensive discussions with the Royal Air Force and the United States Air Force regarding uncertainty over access to RAF Fairford, given the ongoing situation in the Middle East.

We want to thank you for your continued support and understanding. Everyone who has purchased a ticket will be offered the choice to roll over their tickets to RIAT27, receive a full refund, or donate the cost of their tickets to the RAF Charitable Trust, supporting our wider charitable work.

Gavin Gager, Chief?Executive Officer of Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises, said:

“We know how much RIAT means to everyone, and recognise how disappointing this news will be. It is a disappointment we feel just as strongly.

“We would like to thank everyone for their support, loyalty, and understanding. Looking ahead, we remain fully committed to returning in 2027, and to making sure RIAT comes back stronger than ever. We very much look forward to welcoming you all again.”

www.airtattoo.com

More aircraft set to soar at RIAT26

This week, we’re excited to confirm more additions to the line-up for RIAT26!

The Italian Air Force’s Reparto Sperimentale Volo will return to the flying display with an impressive trio of aircraft with their C-27 Spartan, F-2000A Typhoon and T-346A Master all taking to the skies this July!

On the ground, we’re also pleased to confirm an array of aircraft from the Qatar Emiri Air Force. Making its RIAT debut this year will be the Leonardo AW139 helicopter, alongside returning favourites including the C-17A Globemaster and Hawk jet trainer. Their Typhoon will also be joining this year’s ‘Fighter Meet’ theme, bringing together an exciting gathering of fast jets from across the globe.

With less than two months to go until RIAT26, anticipation is continuing to build for another unforgettable weekend of aviation action!

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See what’s new as the RIAT26 line-up takes shape

This week, we’re excited to announce more additions to the line-up for RIAT26!

Returning to RAF Fairford for the first time since 2016, the Krila Oluje Display Team of the Croatian Air Force will once again take to the skies with their spectacular display of their Pilatus PC-9M aircraft.

On the ground, the German Air Force will also bring a Eurofighter EF2000, with a special livery to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Luftwaffe.

We’re also pleased to confirm that the Royal Canadian Air Force will be bringing both the CC-130J Hercules and CC-150 Polaris. With the Polaris approaching retirement, this is one of the final opportunities to see this iconic aircraft in person.

Completing this week’s additions, the Royal Air Force will also be bringing an F-35B Lightning II for the static display line-up. With less than two months to go until RIAT26, preparations are in full swing at Douglas Bader House!

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Tickets are still available for RIAT26, so now’s the perfect time to secure your place and join us at RAF Fairford this summer.

With more aircraft being announced and plenty to see on the ground, now is a great time to book your tickets.

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Europe’s Last Remaining MiG-17 and F-86 Sabre Jets to Make Airbourne Debut

Europe’s only flying MiG-17 and F-86 Sabre jets will perform rare displays at Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow this summer.

The UK’s biggest free seafront airshow returns from 13 – 16 August with a packed programme of fast jets, historic aircraft and aerobatic displays, including three performances from the RAF Red Arrows.

The iconic MiG-17 Cold War fighter jet, based in Poland, will take flight over the weekend with a thunderous new display for fast jet fans. Following its significant restoration, Airbourne will be one of the first few public events to see the aircraft – and its incredible afterburner – in action!

Also joining the show is the North American F-86 Sabre with a thrilling display of speed. The French based Canadair swept wing fighter jet will perform on Thursday, in what will be its first ever visit to the south coast.

Fans of aerobatics can also look forward to The Firebirds in action on Thursday and Friday – a duo specialising in tight formation aerobatics using Van’s RV-4 aircraft.

These latest displays to be announced join a world class line-up, which already includes the RAF Red Arrows, Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Tutor, Royal Navy Black Cats, Jet Pitts, The Starlings, Stampe Formation Team and the Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers.

They are joined by two trailblazing female aviators making their Eastbourne debut this year – six-times French champion and the first woman to compete in the Red Bull Air Race, Mélanie Astles in the Extra 330SC, and National Aerobatics and Tiger Trophy winner, Isabel Rutland in the P-51 Mustang ‘Marinell’.

Eastbourne Borough Council’s Lead Member for Tourism & Place, Cllr Jenny Williams said, “Airbourne has always been first and foremost a fast jet show – whether it’s the modern day Typhoon, the thundering MiG-17, the historic F-86 Sabre or the smooth precision of the Red Arrows – this year fans will have their pick of some of the most astounding engineering feats and astonishing aerobatics on the airshow circuit!

“If you like the roar of a fast jet then please do support the show and keep it flying. You can reach hundreds of thousands of spectators with our sponsorship and advertising packages or join the Ambassador programme with a monthly donation from just £2 – there is even an exclusive gold badge to collect at the show.”

Voted UK’s Best Free Airshow in 2025 (by Airscene), Airbourne hospitality is now on sale with a choice of fine dining, premium BBQ or private cabanas – each with drinks packages, along with exclusive seating areas, car parking and pre-ordering for the souvenir programme and pin badge, sponsored by PRG Marketing Communications.

In addition to RAF, Army and Navy ground displays, shopping villages, simulators and children’s entertainment areas, tribute concerts will perform each evening at the Bandstand, with a firework finale on Sunday evening – subject to sponsorship.

The current flying line-up includes:

Red Arrows (Fri – Sun)

Typhoon (Fri – Sun)

Tutor (Fri – Sun)

Battle of Britain Memorial Flight: Dakota, Hurricane & Spitfire (Thurs – Sun)

Royal Navy Black Cats solo display (Thurs – Sun)

Melanie Astles Extra 330SC (Thurs – Sun)

P-51 Mustang ‘Marinell’ (Thurs – Sun)

Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers (Thurs – Sun)

F-86 Sabre (Thurs)

Stampe Formation Team (Thurs – Fri)

The Firebirds (Thurs – Fri)

MiG-17 (Sat – Sun)

Rich Goodwin Jet Pitts (Sat – Sun)

The Starlings (Sat – Sun)

Airbourne 2026 is supported by Bella & Duke, Caffyns, Cloud Connx, Eastbourne Hospitality Association, Eastbourne News, Elite Medical, Environment First, Euro Self Drive, Frontier Fireworks, Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance, The Lansdowne, More Radio, Neighbourhood First, NTB Outdoors, PRG Marketing Communications, Pureprint Group, The View Hotel, Visit Eastbourne and Zephyr Tech.

Supporting the show is Caffyns – the Eastbourne Airshow Official Pilot Transfer Sponsor dealership – providing net zero emissions pilot and logistic vehicles.

Fans can support the show and keep Airbourne flying high with a one off donation or a monthly pledge from as little as £2 a month at www.SaveAirbourne.com, with all proceeds supporting the flying displays at the show. For more information or to book hospitality, seating, parking, trade space, sponsorship/advertising, pre-order a programme or make a donation visit www.EastbourneAirshow.com.

RIAT26 turns up the heat with exciting new additions

This week, we’re pleased to confirm not one, but two RIAT debuts for RIAT26! Joining the static line-up is the Czech Air Force’s brand-new L-39NG Skyfox, alongside the first-ever RIAT appearance from the Kuwait Air Force’s KC-130J Hercules.

Looking to the skies, we’re adding even more power to the flying display. Saab will be bringing their latest Gripen E as part of our ‘Fighter Meet’ theme, promising an impressive showcase of modern airpower.

Finally, we’re welcoming two Romanian additions to the static display. The Romanian Air Force’s Antonov An-30 will be making a rare visit to the UK, joined by an IAR 823, presented in Romanian markings and operated by a civilian owner.

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Enjoy our enclosures on Sunday

While most enclosures are sold out on Saturday, Sunday still has availability and is a great day to experience the show.

Whether you’re wanting to watch the flying display from a grandstand, from a relaxed atmosphere in a garden setting, or something in between, we have an option to suit everyone. Choose from fully catered or keep it flexible with a range of catering options to choose from that can be purchased on the day. Our enclosures are a perfect base to explore the static displays and all that the rest of the showground has to offer.

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KC-390 debuts at RIAT26

Another Take-Off Thursday brings a wave of exciting updates, with a RIAT debut leading the way. The Hungarian Air Force has confirmed it will showcase its impressive Embraer KC-390 Millennium on static display for the first time – a standout addition to look forward to.

We’re also delighted to welcome the Lithuanian Air Force with one of their newly updated LET 410 aircraft, alongside the return of familiar favourites including the RAF Microlight Flying Association.

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Last chance for Friday Early Bird prices. Ends on Monday 4th May at midnight!

This is your final chance to grab a Friday General Admission ticket at the Early Bird price before they increase to full price on Monday 4th May at midnight. You know you’ll kick yourself if you miss this opportunity. Buy now before it’s too late.

And if you want to make your day even more special with an enclosure upgrade, you’ll need to move fast as all Saturday enclosures apart from Altitude are now completely SOLD OUT! With only 100 spaces remaining in Altitude, these final upgrades will go in a flash. Friday and Sunday enclosure upgrades are still available though, so you can still elevate your experience and make your weekend unforgettable.

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The UK’s New Airshow Announces Rare MiG-17F for the Flying Display as Discounted Tickets end on 30 April

Hampshire, UK; The Hampshire Air Festival has confirmed one of the most iconic and rare aircraft to appear on the UK airshow circuit in 2026, the FUBAR Aviation MiG-17F (Lim-5), adding a real highlight to the festival’s opening year flying display. And just in time before ticket prices increase on 1 May.

Taking place at Thruxton Aerodrome on 12–13 September 2026, Hampshire Air Festival is a new two-day aviation weekend created to celebrate “The Age of Flight” through flying displays, static aircraft and a Saturday evening extravaganza of afterburners from the MiG-17, pyro aerobatics, a drone display and fireworks.

Organisers say the event has been designed to tell the story of aviation across more than a century, from early flight through to vintage warbirds and aerobatic displays to more modern jets.

The confirmation of the MiG-17F is a significant statement of intent for a first-year show. Travelling from Poland, the aircraft is currently the only airworthy MiG-17F in Europe and one of the rarest jet displays available to airshow audiences.

For a newly established airshow to secure such a type for its debut year underlines the scale of the programme being assembled and the organisers’ ambition to create an event with genuine appeal for both enthusiasts and the wider public.

Built in 1958 at WSK Mielec, the aircraft is a Polish-produced Lim-5, a licensed version of the Soviet MiG-17F. The type was a key Cold War fighter, known for its swept-wing design, strong low-altitude agility and rugged construction. Powered by a Klimov VK-1F turbojet with afterburner, the MiG-17F delivered improved high-speed handling over the MiG-15 and remained in service with air forces around the world for decades.

Alongside the MiG-17F, Hampshire Air Festival has also already announced a growing and varied flying display programme featuring a mix of military, heritage and modern aircraft, including the Royal Air Force, and reflecting the event’s broad ambition to appeal to enthusiasts and families alike.

Visitors will be able to see the MiG-17F on both days of the festival. On Saturday it will feature in the Evening Extravaganza with afterburner passes, while on Sunday it will return for a full daytime flying display.

Jonathan Moore, the event organiser said “the team was thrilled to welcome such a rare and historically important jet to the inaugural event. The MiG-17F’s presence reflects the festival’s aim to combine spectacle with substance, creating a weekend that will appeal to enthusiasts, families and those discovering aviation for the first time.”

Hampshire Air Festival takes place at Thruxton Aerodrome on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026.

Ticket prices will be increasing on 1 May after discounts have been available for the past 5 months.

Tickets and further information are available at www.hampshireairfestival.co.uk.

RIAT26 just got bigger – new aircraft confirmed

This week brings another exciting addition to the flying display for RIAT26.

We’re delighted to confirm the Italian Army’s participation, who will be showcasing the rare Agusta Mangusta in the flying display, which is a welcomed addition. They will also be bringing a Boeing Chinook for the static display.

On the ground, even more aircraft have been confirmed, including a Scottish Aviation Bulldog, a SIAI Marchetti SF.260D in Italian Air Force livery, and a British Aerospace Hawk. This will also mark RIAT’s first appearance of this Hawk in civilian hands. With less than three months to go until RIAT26, discussions with participating Air Arms continue as we work to bring even more aircraft announcements in the coming weeks.

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Final call: RIAT26 enclosure offers end this Sunday

April is nearly over, and so are our enclosure offers for RIAT26.

At midnight, Sunday 26th April, all discounted enclosure packages come to an end.

An enclosure is the best way to experience RIAT – giving you a dedicated space, premium viewing, and a more relaxed way to take in the action away from the busiest areas. It’s about comfort, atmosphere, and making the most of your day.

For those planning a more flexible visit, general admission tickets are still available and remain a fantastic way to enjoy RIAT26. They give you access to all the flying displays, plenty of viewing areas across the site, and the full atmosphere of the show. Secure your RIAT26 experience now – whether that’s general admission or an enclosure upgrade. But remember, all enclosure discounts end this Sunday at midnight!

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