RIAT to move to MOD Boscombe Down after four decades

The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) will move to MOD Boscombe Down near Salisbury from 2027.

The decision follows more than four decades of hosting the event and is designed to support the continued growth and evolution of the globally renowned airshow.

Gavin Gager, chief executive of Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises (RAFCTE), said: "Every generation of RIAT has had its defining moments, and I believe this is one of them.

"The decision to move RIAT to Boscombe Down is about much more than a new location.

"It is about securing the future of the world's greatest military airshow and the charitable impact it generates for future generations."

RIAT supports the work of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust (RAFCT), which uses funds raised to inspire young people through education and engagement in air, space and technology.

In 2025, the event helped deliver more than 500,000 STEM engagements for young people across the UK.

Mr Gager said: "What excites me most is not simply the move itself, but what it makes possible.

"Every year RIAT brings people together through a shared passion for aviation, while generating vital funding that enables the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust to inspire hundreds of thousands of young people through STEM engagement.

"That is the real legacy of this event, and it is why securing its future matters so much."

MOD Boscombe Down offers the space, capability and flexibility needed to support RIAT’s future ambitions and growth.

Mr Gager paid tribute to RIAT’s long-standing home, saying: "I want to pay tribute to RAF Fairford and the local community, whose support and partnership have helped make RIAT the success it is today.

"We will always be proud of that shared history.

"Now, we have the opportunity to write the next chapter.

"I cannot wait to welcome the world to RIAT27 at Boscombe Down and to share that journey with everyone who makes this extraordinary event possible."

RAFCTE will remain headquartered in Fairford and has reaffirmed its commitment to the town and surrounding community.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth, Chief of the Air Staff, Royal Air Force, also reflected on RIAT’s legacy.

RIAT (Image: RIAT)

He said: "For more than 50 years, the Royal International Air Tattoo has brought together air forces, industry and aviation enthusiasts from around the world, creating a unique opportunity to showcase the very best of military aviation and to strengthen our international partnerships."

The move has been welcomed in Wiltshire, where Boscombe Down is based.

Councillor Ian Thorn, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: "This is fantastic news for Wiltshire."

He said the event will attract thousands of visitors and boost the local economy.

RIAT 2027 will be the first edition of the airshow to take place at MOD Boscombe Down, and further details about the show, including aircraft participation and visitor experiences, will be announced in the coming months.

RAFCTE has said it looks forward to welcoming the global aviation community to what promises to be a historic and memorable occasion.