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Gloucestershire Business News

British classics and European jets added to this year's Air Tattoo

The Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford is set to have something for everyone following its latest aircraft announcements.

Stretching from historic British aircraft to modern technology, the three-day event, scheduled for July 14th-16th, caters to both avid aviation fans and families looking for an awe-inspiring day out.

In recent weeks, the RAF's Battle of Britain Memorial Flight has confirmed its attendance at the Air Tattoo, with its iconic display featuring the Supermarine Spitfire, Hawker Hurricane and Avro Lancaster.

In contrast, the Royal Air Force's Typhoon, which secured the skies over the UK 24/7, 365 days a year, will also be roaring through the skies on all three days of the aviation extravaganza.

In recent weeks the organisers have also announced jets from Belgium, Finland and Sweden will all be performing in the flying displays, plus the Spanish national aerobatic team 'Patrulla Águila' (Eagle Patrol) and many others.

Peter Reoch, head of air operations at the RAF Charitable Trust Enterprises, explained there are still plenty of aircraft displays still to be unveiled: "Our ambition is to always have an eclectic mix of aircraft on both flying and static displays, focusing on our various themes at RIAT each year.

"Planning the Air Tattoo is a year-round process, but it is during April and May that the majority of our participating air forces confirm their attendance, so the list of aircraft will continue to grow and we are expecting to welcome aircraft from over 20 nations to the show in July."

Last year, the Air Tattoo, which has BAE Systems as its headline sponsor, saw 200,000 people visit RAF Fairford for the show, and this year's event looks to build on the success of last year's sell-out event.

BAE Systems will be displaying a full-scale replica of Tempest, a vision of the UK's future combat air system, and promoting the wide range of exciting career opportunities from its Education Station staffed by many apprentices and graduates. In 2023, the company plans to recruit more than 2,600 apprentices across its UK business.

Speaking ahead of the event, Ian Muldowney, chief operating officer, BAE Systems - Air, said: "We are delighted to once again be headline sponsor of RIAT and look forward to welcoming thousands of people from across the country.

"I am sure there will be many who are inspired by the fantastic flying displays to want to be a part of the exciting future which the RAF and its allied international air forces have, and we look forward to welcoming them all this summer."

Tickets for the Royal International Air Tattoo are available from the website.

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