The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025

20th Jul 2025

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The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025 drew to a close with extraordinary success, reaffirming its status as a flagship event in the global aviation calendar.

Over 175,000 visitors flocked to the RAF Fairford airbase to admire 224 aircraft from 27 nations, in a celebration that seamlessly blended flight tradition with the latest frontiers of innovation.

This year's edition marked a milestone for the future of aviation: the iconic Red Arrows completed their first-ever flight using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

This pivotal step is part of a broader journey undertaken by the RAF, which previously saw the Typhoon utilize SAF in 2024 and continue to do so this summer, demonstrating a concrete and lasting commitment toward greener, low-environmental-impact aviation.

In line with the 2025 theme, "Eyes in the Skies," the crowd witnessed unique displays focused on surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.

Among the highlights, the RAF's Wedgetail aircraft conducted a joint demonstration with the Red Arrows, while the imposing American U-2 spy plane and the sleek French Atlantique maritime patrol aircraft captured the audience's attention with their power and precision.

The event offered far more than just aerial displays. Celebrations marking 40 years since RIAT's first landing at RAF Fairford brought to life a heritage center that retraced the rich history of the airshow.

The expanded Techno Zone® welcomed thousands of young people, providing them with the opportunity to interact with the latest scientific and engineering technologies and igniting their passion for the future of flight. Looking ahead, RIAT 2025 also provided a glimpse into the future of aviation by showcasing Vertical Aerospace's VX4 prototype.

This aircraft represents a potential preview of how air transport will evolve in the decades to come, closing a memorable edition that celebrated history, drove innovation, and highlighted the importance of sustainability.