RIAT 2025: Everything you need to know

RIAT 2025 takes place from 18-20 July

Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to watch flight shows at this year's Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT).

The event at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire has been going for more than 50 years and is attended by about 170,000 people.

It includes air shows, aircraft displays and family events over a three-day period.

To help, here is everything you need to know to make the most of the event.

When is RIAT this year?

RIAT takes place from 18-20 July in 2025.

The event opens on the Friday at 07:30 BST. Events are running throughout the weekend until 19:30 BST on Sunday.

Do I need tickets?

Yes. The tickets for Friday and Saturday are already sold out, however, add-ons for those days are still available.

Tickets for events on Sunday are also still up for grabs.

How do I get to RIAT?

The event sees about 170,000 people come to the showground, so preparing travel in advance will make life easier.

The fastest way to get to the show will be via the Swindon Shuttle Bus, or Cheltenham Park and Ride.

You can also organise ride sharing via the event's website.

What events are taking place?

On Friday, the day will kick off with a first flying display at 11:00 BST. The aircraft that will be on display will arrive at 15:00 BST and the showground closes at 18:00 BST.

On Saturday and Sunday, the first flying display starts at 10:00, with the last display ending at 17:30. The showground closes at 19:30.

People will be able to visit different aircraft and speak to pilots and engineers on site in between flight displays.

What should I bring?

The show organisers advise people to "pack lightly" to help reduce waiting times when security check people's bags at entry points.

However, a water bottle, sun cream and hat if it is hot are essential to bring along.

The organisers said: "Dangerous items like knives or drones should never be brought into RAF Fairford under any circumstances."