UK Airshow News – Page 2

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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Eyes To The Skies – The Midlands Air Festival Is Nearly Here

The organisers of the highly acclaimed Midlands Air Festival are predicting a sell out weekend for this world-famous show. Combining an international air display and one of Europe’s largest hot air balloon events, this unique aviation festival attracts an audience from all over the Midlands, the UK and Europe.

The annual event features the spectacular red jets of the RAF Red Arrows, the historic Spitfire, Hurricane and DC3 Dakota of the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the stunning mass parachute team of the RAF Falcons. This year’s highlights include from Poland the cold war Mig 17F fighter jet; from France the big beefy Conair Firecat which is a fire bomber and will be dropping over 3,000litres of water in 4 seconds; the two ground attack jets of the Strikemaster Pair and the largest civilian formation air display team in the UK – Team Raven.

Also in the air show line up is the giant four engine WW2 Flying Fortress B17; a Mustang P51 fighter; the Royal Navy Swordfish; the graceful Catalina Sea Plane; the historic bi planes of the Stampe display team; the big Vietnam era turbo prop Bronco and the insane high energy aerobatics of the Extra.

Added to these there will be two very rare famous helicopters in the ‘Rescue Pair’ one is the Westland Sea King and the other is the Westland Whirlwind, the only airworthy example in the world. Also in the rotary department is the ever-popular tiny Callidus Gyrocopter. Others include, the WW2 warbird trainer the Harvard, the evocative Rolls-Royce Spitfire, the modern ‘star ship’ Twinstar and from France the gorgeous Spartan Executive, which is a 1930’s propeller version of a modern executive jet, plus a selection of superb large radio-controlled aircraft.

For the balloon enthusiasts there will be over 100 giant multicoloured round hot air balloons plus a fabulous collection of massive ‘special shape’ character balloons, including a rare appearance of the absolutely enormous Harley Davidson motor bike, not seen in the UK for over 40 years! Other popular favourites include Iggy the Purple Dragon; Thomas the Tank Engine; Smiley Scarcrow; Finley the Turtle and Busby the King’s Guardsman to name but a few of the 27 special shapes attending this year as part of the largest line up of uniquely shaped balloons in Europe.

This amazing festival kicks off with the signature ‘Nightfire’ event which starts with an afternoon air display, then a massive balloon ascent, pyrotechnic air displays, the iconic fireglow with dancing balloons and fire show then a spectacular firework finale. These dazzling displays and glowing giants all take place in the estate grounds of the historic Ragley Hall near Alcester.

www.midlandsairfestival.com

Royal Air Force Charitable Trust launches Race to RIAT racing series

The Royal Air Force Charitable Trust is set to inspire the next generation of aircraft pilots with its new eDrone racing competition, Race to RIAT.

Launched alongside partners the British Esports Federation and DXC Technology, a leading enterprise technology and innovation partner, the competition, which will involve schools and RAF Air Cadets between the ages of 14-16 years old, will see young people battle it out across six weeks before reaching the final race at the Royal International Air Tattoo this summer.

The races are created using Velocidrone software, allowing participants to join from across the country. The competition is composed of six different tracks with races taking place between April 20th and June 14th. The 16 fastest participants will battle it out at RIAT in the grand final to scoop first place on the podium.

Hannah Langford, Head of Charity Development at RAFCT said: “We’re proud to launch Race to RIAT, a new FPV simulator racing competition which brings STEM learning and aviation awareness directly into classrooms and Air Cadet units. By giving teenagers the chance to design, fly, and race drones, we’re helping young people develop technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and the confidence to pursue future pathways in engineering, technology and aviation.

“With the support of DXC Technology, this initiative demonstrates how innovative learning experiences can spark ambition and open doors, showing young people that the future of flight and technology is something they can be part of today.”

“At DXC Technology, we recognise the critical importance of equipping young people with the digital and engineering skills needed for the future workforce,” said Derek Allison, General Manager, DXC UK & Ireland “Race to RIAT provides an exciting and engaging way for students to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), develop problem?solving capabilities and build the confidence to pursue careers in technology. We’re delighted to partner with the RAF Charitable Trust and British Esports to help inspire and nurture the next generation of innovators.”

The activity allows young people to engage in a STEM activity with particular emphasis on cyber and digital skills, as well as engineering concepts, problem solving and air mindedness. Hosting the final on the Inspire Stage at RIAT, as well as celebrating the success of competitors, provides a showcase for esports as a way in which young people can fulfil their potential in air, space and technology.

The series is a three-way partnership between RAFCT, the British Esports Federation and DXC Technology, which will see the three organisations collaborating to deliver the competition, alongside a series of talks and presentations on the Inspire Stage highlighting the range of careers pathways which esports and gaming can open.

Kalam Neale, Head of Education at the British Esports Federation said:

“Through the combination of esports, eDrone racing and education, British Esports are proud to announce Race to RIAT in partnership with the RAF Charitable Trust and DXC Technologies. Race to RIAT presents an opportunity for school pupils and cadets to engage in their passion, compete and develop key transferable skills that will support their future career aspirations and open up a whole new world of opportunities in STEM, digital and aviation industries connecting the next generation of talent with the jobs of the future.”

www.airtattoo.com

Turkish Stars return to RIAT26

A Turkish delight for this week’s announcement

We’re delighted to confirm the return of the Turkish Air Force to RIAT26, with exciting contributions both in the air and on the ground. We’re particularly pleased to welcome back the Turkish Stars display team, marking their first UK appearance since 2010! Alongside their flying display, the Turkish Air Force will also bring the iconic F-4E Phantom II to the static line-up as part of this year’s ‘Fighter Meet’ theme.

Continuing with the theme, we’re also pleased to confirm a MiG-15 for the static display, presented in Polish Air Force markings – a fantastic addition showcasing a true Cold War classic.

Supporting our ‘Royal Flight’ theme, we’re delighted to include the Royal Chipmunk in this year’s line-up. This historic aircraft was used to train members of the Royal Family to fly, including His Majesty King Charles III, making it a particularly special addition to RIAT26. We continue to work closely with our international partners, with some exciting developments in progress for this year’s show. More flying display announcements will be coming next week as we get closer to July.

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Make sure you’ve secured your tickets. General Admission tickets give you access to all the thrilling flying displays and showground attractions, while Enclosure packages offer an upgraded experience with exclusive viewing areas and premium facilities.

Thinking of Altitude on Saturday? Now’s the time to book Tickets are currently 5% off, but prices will rise to full price at midnight on Sunday 19th April – don’t miss the chance to save.

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Shuttleworth Air Show Season Takes Off This May

Shuttleworth Season premiere — *Photo: Mach 3 Studio*

First air show, Season Premiere, on 10 May sets tone for exciting season ahead

Old Warden, 15 April 2026 – The excitement is building at Shuttleworth, with its first air show of the summer, Season Premiere, taking place on 10 May 2026.

Season Premiere sets the tone for an unforgettable start to Shuttleworth’s air show season, delivering a full day of entertainment for visitors of all ages. The air display will showcase an impressive line?up of visiting aircraft, with several making their first-ever appearance at Shuttleworth. This includes the XtremeAir XA41, specifically designed for energetic aerobatic displays, as well as one of the most famous transport aircraft in aviation history, the Douglas C-47 Dakota. Also joining Shuttleworth will be the Royal Air Force’s Falcons Parachute Display team. Alongside these visitors, Shuttleworth’s own world?class Collection, including the world’s oldest airworthy aircraft (the Blériot Type XI) and iconic Supermarine Spitfire and Westland Lysander, will fly.

The excitement continues beyond the airfield, with a packed programme of ground attractions. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy a complimentary fun fair, explore a variety of stalls, enjoy delicious street food, and dive into hands-on STEM activities in the Discovery Zones. A vintage bus service will transport visitors to Shuttleworth House, once home to Collection founder Richard Shuttleworth and now a celebrated venue for events and weddings. Elsewhere, the Clayton and Shuttleworth Heritage Team will demonstrate historic machinery in action. Visitors can also explore Swiss Garden, a unique example of a Regency garden in the ‘Swiss Picturesque’ style, offering a tranquil contrast to the excitement of the show.

Marc Boult, Head of Visitor Operations at Shuttleworth, commented: “The first show of the season, our Season Premiere always has a unique buzz about it as staff, volunteers and visitors alike enjoy seeing a wonderful array of aircraft back in the skies above Old Warden. The excitement surrounding the start of the season is well deserved – we have an exceptional season ahead, featuring more European visiting displays than ever before and some very special anniversaries to celebrate.”

The Season Premiere Air Show is the first of seven spectacular shows taking place at Shuttleworth this year:

• Wings & Wheels Air Show – 31 May

• Festival of Flight Air Show – 27-28 June

• Summer Air Show – 25 July

• Flying Proms Air Show – 15 August

• Military Air Show – 29 August

• Race Day Air Show – 4 October

To find out more about the air show season and book your tickets, click here.

All aircraft appearances are subject to weather and serviceability.

‘Fighter Meet’ Builds Momentum

This week brings exciting news as we reveal the first Royal Air Force participants confirmed for RIAT26! ?

As part of this year’s ‘Fighter Meet’ theme, we’re pleased to welcome back the RAF Typhoon Display Team with their award-winning display. They’ll be joined by the iconic Battle of Britain Memorial Flight with the Dakota, Spitfire and Hurricane.

We’re also pleased to confirm participation from the Swedish Air Force as they celebrate their 100th anniversary. Their Saab Gripens will feature in both the flying display and static line-up, with the JAS-39C taking to the skies and the JAS-39D available to view on the ground.

Completing this week’s announcement, a trio of civilian aircraft will join the static display, including a Cessna 152 from Halton Aero Club, a Cessna T-41A Mescalero from AKS Aviation, and a Slingsby Nipper from Aerial Vocations. With discussions ongoing, there’s plenty more to come as the RIAT26 participation list continues to grow.

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Book your RIAT26 tickets now

Tickets for RIAT26 are selling fast, and enclosures are already filling up – Flight Deck Saturday is now completely sold out.

Secure your place by choosing from a range of ticket options to suit your day. For an unforgettable experience, upgrade to one of our hospitality enclosures and enjoy premium viewing, added comfort, and exclusive perks. Availability is limited, so booking now is highly recommended.

Take advantage of our early bird offers: Viewing Village Grandstand Friday and Flight Deck Friday tickets are currently available at 10% off – but hurry, this discount ends at midnight on Sunday 12th April, when prices will go to 5% off.

General Admission tickets are still available though, giving you full access to everything RIAT has to offer – from breathtaking flying displays to an impressive static aircraft line-up. Demand is soaring, so don’t miss out – book your tickets today.

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German air power lands at RIAT26

This week, we’re bringing you a huge German Armed Forces line-up for RIAT26, including three incredible flying displays!

The Panavia Tornado returns to the flying display – a rare and unforgettable sight. Joining it, the German Air Force’s Eurofighter EF2000 will also take to the skies as part of our ‘Fighter Meet’ theme.

On the ground, don’t miss the Airbus A321-251NX making its RIAT debut, alongside returning favourites including the A400M, CH-53G, and Sea Lynx.

Plus, the NH90 will feature in both flying and static displays!

A big thank you to our German partners.
Stay tuned for more RIAT26 updates coming soon.

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Great views, great value

Don’t miss your chance to secure premium viewing at the best price.
Sunday tickets for the Flight Deck and Cotswold Club are currently available at an exclusive 5% discount rate, but this won’t last for long. At midnight on Monday 6th April, prices will rise to full price.

If you’ve been considering upgrading your RIAT experience, now is the time to act. Lock in your place today and enjoy unbeatable views, comfort, and hospitality before the price increase.

Prefer to keep it classic? General Admission tickets are still available, offering incredible access to all the action, from thrilling flying displays to extensive static aircraft exhibits. With demand building, now’s the perfect time to secure your spot and be part of an unforgettable day.

Book now to avoid disappointment.

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More aircraft revealed for RIAT26

We’re?officially one week closer to RIAT26!?This week’s Take Off Thursday brings another addition to the flying display as the Slovak Air Force brings their UH-60M Black Hawk to RIAT for the very first time!?

We also confirm the participation of the Royal Netherlands Air & Space Force as part of our ‘Fighter Meet’ theme. They will bring a pair of F-35A Lightning II?aircraft?for static display?– only their second appearance at RIAT?– alongside their NH90 NFH.??

The Royal Jordanian Air Force will send their C-130H Hercules for static display, accompanied by a Jordanian cultural display?located?at the eastern end of the showground.?

Finally, the French Wing of the Commemorative Air Force will bring their Piper J-3C Cub to the static display.

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Book your place at RIAT26

Don’t miss your chance to be part of the world’s greatest airshow! Secure your RIAT26 tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable day of incredible flying displays, iconic aircraft, and an unbeatable atmosphere.

For a truly elevated experience, upgrade to one of our premium enclosures. The Cotswold Club offers a relaxed garden-party setting with great views, while the Flight Deck puts you right at the heart of the action with a prime viewing position.

See our website for all options available. Make it a day to remember – lock in your tickets today!

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The RAF Red Arrows Return To The Midlands For Another Spectacular Season

The news that many have been waiting for has just been released and it confirms that the RAF Aerobatic Team, The Red Arrows will be taking centre stage at the acclaimed Midlands Air Festival at the end of May.

2026 will be a historic year for the team, as for the first time in its long history, the RAF’s premier display team will have a female commanding officer. Wing Commander Sasha Nash recently replaced Wing Commander Adam Collins who has just completed a successful three year tour with the team. Wing Commander Nash is now responsible for the 150 strong unit based at RAF Waddington and will coordinate every aspect of the team, including displays, safety, engineering and detailed planning. Their appearance at the Midlands Air Festival will be the very first opportunity to see the team’s new season display at an inland UK air display.

The Red Arrows, who are the largest military aerobatic team in the UK, will join a stellar lineup of display aircraft from all over the UK and Europe, to include the rare cold war MiG 17F jet fighter from Poland, the Grumman Turbo Firecat from France performing its very first fire bombing demonstration in the UK dropping over 3,000 litres of water in 4 seconds and Team Raven who are largest civilian display team in the UK.

The Battle of Britain Memorial flight will be displaying with a Spitfire and Hurricane and unusually, a Douglas DC 3 Dakota as the Lancaster is in deep maintenance at the moment. There will also be the first display after a long restoration of the world’s only Westland Whirlwind historic search and rescue helicopter in company with a giant Sea King helicopter.

The RAF mass parachute team, the Falcons will also drop on all 3 days. Many more exciting aircraft make up the daily flying display.

Adding to the excitement is a major hot air balloon festival too, with over 150 giant multi coloured balloons including many special shape ‘character’ balloons, most standing over 100ft tall including Smiley Scarecrow; Fly Alien; Busby the Kings Guardsman; Orient Express and Iggy the Friendly Dragon.

The Festival kicks off on the evening of Friday 29th May with the signature ‘Nightfire’ show, with pyrotechnic air displays, balloon ascents, Fireglow and a massive firework finale.

The Midlands Air Festival takes place in the beautiful estate grounds of the historic Ragley Hall at Alcester from 29th to the 31st May. More information can be obtained at www.midlandsairfestival.com