RIAT 2026 cancelled amid Middle East conflict

This year's Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) has been cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, organisers have confirmed.

The air show at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire has been going for more than 50 years, and can attract an attendance of more than 170,000 people.

Organisers said cancelling the event was "not an easy decision" and came after discussions with the United States Air Force regarding uncertainty over the access to RAF Fairford, given the ongoing situation in Iran.

Those who have purchased a ticket will have a choice to receive a refund, use their tickets next year, or donate the cost to the RAF Charitable Trust.

Gavin Gager, chief executive officer of Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises, said the event would return in 2027.

"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," he said.

"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."

The recent conflict has seen the United States and Israel launch attacks on Iran, killing the country's supreme leader on 28 February 2026.

Both countries have said Iran is continuing to develop nuclear weapons, and poses a threat to security in the region.

The United States and Iran have continued to negotiate over a peace deal since a temporary ceasefire was agreed last month.

RIAT is a not-for-profit event and all profits are donated to the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust (RAFCT).

This year's event was due to take place from 17 to 19 July.

Ticket holders are being offered a rollover to 2027, a refund, or the option to donate the value of their ticket to the RAFCT.

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