World-renowned airshow The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) has been cancelled for 2026, due to uncertainty over access to its RAF Fairford base this summer.
The hugely popular annual event was set to take place over three days at the airbase near Cirencester from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 July 2026, but the team has announced this week, 'with great disappointment', that it will not be going ahead.
It comes amid the ongoing war between the USA alongside Israel, and Iran, with the Cotswolds airbase currently being used by the United States Airforce to launch military operations.
A statement from RIAT reads: '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.'
Featuring hundreds of aircraft from around the world on display in the air and on the ground, RIAT is the world's biggest military airshow and one of the UK's most anticipated annual events, drawing thousands of visitors each year with attractions for all ages, from science and tech exhibits, to its vibrant hospitality areas.
Thanking supporters for their 'continued understanding', RIAT will offer ticket holders 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 to support its wider charitable work.
Gavin Gager, CEO 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.'
To read frequently asked questions about the cancellation of this year's event, visit airtattoo.com/faqs/frequently-asked-questions-2026-cancelletion.
