An ambitious programme of involvement at next summer’s Royal International Air Tattoo has been outlined by the RAF with vintage and modern aircraft ranging from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to the Airbus A330 Voyager refuelling aircraft which has only just entered service.
RAF Air Command said it hopes to send a flying VC-10 transport aircraft and TriStar air-to-air tanker – both aircraft types are due to leave service next year to be replaced by the A330 Voyager, pictured, – along with a heavy-lift C-17 and C-130J/K Hercules to either take part in the flying display or for static park.
Other RAF aircraft earmarked for the airshow include a Tornado and search-and- rescue Sea King helicopter along with the Red Arrows and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
The RAF also supports plans by the airshow organisers to bring together all operators of the multi-role Typhoon aircraft in line with the show’s theme of SkyGuardian. The Typhoon is in service with air forces from Austria, Italy, Germany, Spain and Saudi Arabia as well as the RAF.
The Air Tattoo takes place at RAF Fairford, in the heart of the Cotswolds, on July 20 and 21.
Air Tattoo chief executive Tim Prince said: “Though we shall have to wait until spring to receive official confirmation of exactly which RAF aircraft will be attending, it’s great to receive such positive news so early.
“It is important for us to make sure that the Air Tattoo provides the most effective engagement opportunity for the Royal Air Force because of the incredible support they give us each year. Having knowledge of their plans so early on is fantastic and gives us a great head start with our planning. It was like receiving an early Christmas present.”
Anyone planning to visit the Air Tattoo has until January 6 to take advantage of a specially-priced Super Earlybird ticket, which offers a saving of 33% on the price of admission. For full details, visit airtattoo.com
