The trustees of Newark Air Museum has been notified that the Phantom FGR2 cockpit from XV490, which has been on long-term loan at the museum since 2012 will soon be leaving for a new home in the Cotswolds. This will be with the Phantom Group at Kemble.
XV490 arrived at its Gateway Aviation Site in in north-eastern Nottinghamshire in 2011, when it vacated its previous display location at the Hack Green Nuclear Bunker site. At that time it was anticipated it would move onto display at the former RAF Wattisham site in Suffolk, however that move never materialised.
The impending departure of XV490 will take place on 16th June, 2026. Before heading south, the cockpit will be displayed at the Lincolnshire County Show.
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!
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.
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.
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.
The Army Flying Museum, in Middle Wallop, are in the last throws of their preparation for their popular annual fundraising event, Wallop Wheels and Wings, which will take place on both the Museum site and the historic adjacent airfield on Saturday 11 July.
Visitors are in for a real treat again this year as, weather permitting, a number of air displays are planned throughout the event. The amazing Royal Navy Raiders parachute team will be wowing the crowds and making their first visit to Wallop Wheels and Wings. The Team has operated since 1983 and comprises volunteers from across the Royal Navy and Royal Marines who enjoy promoting the Service to domestic audiences at public events, air shows, military and sporting events. The team conduct a visually stunning display with pyrotechnics, underslung flags before accurately landing within the arena in front of the excited crowd It is set to be a very exciting addition to the display programme at this popular annual event at Middle Wallop.
In addition, the Museum are thrilled to welcome back the Rolls Royce Heritage Flight Spitfire and the Navy Wings Chipmunk and Bird Dog who will be entertaining the crowds with a tail chase.
Also included in the programme are very special displays by the Gazelle Squadron, Pitts Special and Yak, with a flypast from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire. The event will also commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Chipmunk and 90th anniversary of the Spitfire, with static displays of aircraft for visitors to view.
The event is a great day out for the whole family, not just for car, motorbike and aircraft enthusiasts and will see a full programme of entertainment running throughout the day including craft activities, pit stop challenge, laser tag, mini racers and circus skills, for all ages to get involved in. This year, sponsors GKN Aerospace, Boeing and Andover College will also provide some great activities to keep young minds whirring in the Discovery Den. Younger visitors will also have lots of fun with the classic pedal planes and little tanks.
The shopping village will showcase local artisan traders including Homemade Brownie Company, Bluestone Vineyards, Hornet Chilli, Saxnot Meadery, and many more and is a great chance to support local independent traders and pick up some unique gifts. Visitors can also enjoy a range of talks from military authors and historians in the Speaker’s Tent.
The event has again attracted its highest number of exhibitors, with over 400 classic/super cars and motorcycles, with a very special display by sponsors Andover Norton International. The event will also showcase the Light Aircraft Association, Living History Groups, the Historic Aircraft Flight and much more.
For those with an interest in photography, there are only limited tickets remaining for the photography enclosure which gives exclusive access to aircraft arrivals and prime positioning to capture some amazing shots on the day.
Chief Executive of the Museum Lucy Johnson said: “Wallop Wheels and Wings is the Army Flying Museum’s main fundraising event and a chance to showcase some of the best vintage aircraft, cars and motorbikes on the beautiful site of Middle Wallop airfield. We are also thrilled to have been able to programme a number of air displays into the event again this year. The Museum is an independent charity and relies on fundraising activities to support the work we do in preserving the history of British Army aviation. In February, the Museum suffered an unexpected three-week closure due to a power outage, so the event this year is more important than ever in raising vital funds for the Museum! But, it’s also a brilliant day out for the whole family and we hope you can join us!”
All tickets purchased in advance of the event come with a free annual pass for the Museum valid from 12 July and with all school holiday activities included in the annual pass, this gives great value for money for local families to enjoy and support this great local Museum. Ticket prices increase from Thursday 9th July, so be sure to book nice and early to get great discounts on tickets.
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.
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.
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.
A new initiative to help identify future leaders in space is due to launch later this year.
Funded by the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust (RAFCT), Rockets For All is a partnership with RAF Youth Stem, Big Ideas and Imperial Space Lab, building on previous work with the UK Space Agency. The new component, Inspire Leaders, aims to raise awareness of the Space sector among young people and teachers, helping to enhance the future work force for the rapidly growing industry.
The UK space industry employs around 55,000 people directly and supports a further 80,000 jobs in the wider economy. This high level of employment contributes significantly to economic growth, with the sector generating around £18.6 billion in income. Continued expansion of the global space market, projected to reach £490 billion by 2030, is expected to create further jobs and increase the UK’s economic contribution.
Inspire Leaders will see GCSE students sign up to virtual events, equipping them with the skills to become role models, which they can then share with younger children or different audiences through enrichment activities.
The scheme marks an important step in fostering leadership, collaboration, and STEM engagement among young people, while ensuring the programme is shaped by real-world classroom experiences. This targeted pilot will allow for deeper engagement with teachers, ensuring activities are shaped through consultation and feedback.
RAFCT, based in Gloucestershire, is powered by the proceeds of the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT). Following the success of RIAT in recent years, the event’s parent charity has been able to establish itself as a leading funder and convener for STEM in the UK. The RAFCT aims to inspire young people to reach their full potential in STEM and this latest partnership is a welcome addition to the organisation’s work, explains Director RAFCT, Dr Kevin P Stenson:
“Space has always captured people’s imagination, something that has recently been illustrated by NASA’s Artemis II mission and this programme unlocks young people’s potential in multiple ways,” he said.
“Firstly, space shows them that STEM subjects aren’t just theory, they lead to real achievements for the human race from launching rockets, to living on the moon, to exploring Mars. Through STEM skills they have the power to change what humanity thinks is possible.
“Secondly, potential is unlocked through the mastery of essential skills, including planning, adapting, teamwork and leadership. This programme will provide GCSE students with an in-school opportunity to develop these essential skills.
“Given the reinvigoration of interest in space, I couldn’t be prouder to be launching this new partnership with Big Ideas, RAF Youth STEM and Imperial enabling young people to combine their limitless imagination with a sense of achievement and Purpose.”
The Gloucestershire-based charity has reached more than 780,000 young people with STEM educational engagements since 2022, including its flagship Road to RIAT programme which reaches more 600 primary schools, and other partnerships including its support for Safer Internet Day with Tech She Can.
Big Ideas is a social impact organisation specialising in educational enrichment and inclusion. Big Ideas CEO, Dr Virginia Crompton said:
“We are delighted to announce that the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust (RAFCT) will be supporting the Rockets for All programme pilot and we look forward to bringing the excitement of rockets and space careers to UK classrooms with the support of our partner Dr Simon Foster at Imperial Space Lab.
“From our previous work with the UK Space Agency, we know there is demand for accessible rocketry challenges for schools and the new youth-led leadership challenge we are introducing in this pilot will support transition to the world of work for young people, whether in Space or here on Earth. We look forward to working with our pilot schools to develop this new element further – there couldn’t be a better time to get young people inspired by Space.”
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.
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!
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.
