The Royal International Air Tattoo 2025

he Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025 will be remembered as a show of contrasts—thrilling performances, rare appearances, and challenging weather conditions that tested pilots and spectators alike. Over three packed days at RAF Fairford, tens of thousands of aviation enthusiasts braved everything from bright spells to heavy showers, proving once again why RIAT remains the world’s premier military airshow.

Weather: A Challenge for Pilots and Photographers

This year’s RIAT was marked by unpredictable weather, with fast-moving fronts bringing a mix of sunshine, showers, and low cloud. Saturday in particular saw gusting winds and intermittent rain, leading to changes in the flying schedule and tighter display windows. Despite this, the professionalism of the pilots shone through, delivering stunning displays when conditions allowed and showcasing precision flying in difficult circumstances.

High-Profile Cancellations

One of the most talked-about disappointments was the cancellation of the United States Air Force B-1B Lancer. Mechanical challenges prevented the iconic supersonic bomber from making its planned appearance, leaving many enthusiasts disappointed. Nevertheless, the organisers responded quickly, ensuring the packed schedule still thrilled crowds throughout the weekend.

Spanish Eurofighter Tifon

RAF E7 Wedgetail

U2 Dragon Lady

Airbus A400M topside

Battle of Britain Memorial Flight

Polish F16 Tiger Demo

Breguet Atlantique

Danish F16 Farewell

Headline Highlights

Despite the weather and cancellations, RIAT 2025 delivered some truly memorable moments:

• The U-2 “Dragon Lady” – One of the rarest aircraft on the global circuit, the U-2 wowed crowds with its distinctive silhouette and legendary high-altitude heritage. Its appearance was one of the most talked-about highlights of the weekend.

• Royal Danish Air Force F-16 Display (Farewell UK Appearance) – This marked the final UK display of the Danish F-16 solo team. Flying in their distinctive special livery, the display combined high-energy manoeuvres with heritage significance, drawing emotional applause from the audience.

• RAF’s New E-7 Wedgetail Debut – Making its UK public debut, the RAF’s new E-7 Wedgetail showcased its cutting-edge capabilities. While not as fast as the fast jets stealing the headlines, the aircraft represents a significant leap in RAF airborne early warning capability.

• Red Arrows – The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team once again delivered their trademark precision, coloured smoke trails painting the grey skies with iconic red, white, and blue.

Heritage and Formation Flying

The airshow also celebrated aviation heritage with emotional displays from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, featuring the Avro Lancaster bomber flying in formation with a Spitfire—an enduring reminder of the RAF’s proud past. These moments drew prolonged applause and provided a moving counterpoint to the cutting-edge jets dominating the weekend.

Conclusion

While the weather challenged both pilots and spectators, RIAT 2025 still delivered on its promise of world-class aviation spectacle. From rare aircraft like the U-2 Dragon Lady and the debut of the RAF E-7 Wedgetail to emotional farewells like the Danish F-16 solo display, it proved that no matter the conditions, RIAT continues to inspire and thrill.