RIAT 2024: New Aircraft Announcements Including Chinook Role Demo and Embraer KC-390
The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) has announced an exciting array of additional aircraft for this year’s airshow, further enriching an already impressive line-up. Among the newly confirmed participants are the Chinook helicopter role demonstration and the Embraer KC-390, both of which will feature prominently in the flying displays.
Starting with the UK’s Joint Aviation Command, formerly known as Joint Helicopter Command, the Chinook helicopter will perform a combat role demonstration on both Saturday and Sunday. This dynamic display will include the carrying of an underslung load and the deployment of troops. While organizers were initially informed that an HC.6 airframe would be used for the demonstration, they are currently confirming with the crew whether an HC.5 airframe, as seen at the RAF Cosford Air Show last weekend, might be utilized instead.
In addition to the Chinook, the static display will feature Apache and Wildcat helicopters from the Army Air Corps, both scheduled to arrive on Friday morning. Aviation enthusiasts will also be treated to a rare appearance by a Puma HC2 helicopter, which will be stationed near the RAF Experience area.
Italian Tornado
Royal International Air Tattoo 2023
Adding to the international allure of the event, the Italian Air Force will contribute one of their Tornado jets to the static line-up. They aim to bring a specially painted aircraft celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Tornado, which will be a striking addition to the NATO 75th Anniversary static exhibit. Furthermore, the Italian Reparto Sperimentale di Volo will send their Piaggio P.180AM Avanti for VIP transportation, although its availability for public viewing over the weekend remains uncertain at this time.
Visitors attending on Friday will be in for a special treat with a flying display by the Embraer KC-390. This modern multi-mission transport aircraft will be flown by the manufacturer using their company demonstrator airframe, promising a captivating performance.
The static displays have also been enriched with the addition of nine civilian aircraft. Among these is the Auster J/5F Aiglet Trainer, previously used for flight testing by Cranfield College of Aeronautics. The static display will also showcase various aircraft from RAF Flying Clubs across the country, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history and evolution of aviation.
As the show date approaches, the RIAT Air Operations team is entering a critical phase of planning. Key events such as ‘The Longest Day’ are on the horizon, where the team will meticulously plan arrival slots for approximately 250 aircraft set to arrive at RAF Fairford. This intensive planning session will enable organizers to provide more detailed information in the coming weeks regarding which aircraft will be available for viewing on Friday and those that will be positioned at the western end of the showground, accessible only on Saturday and Sunday.
With a diverse array of aircraft from military and civilian sectors and participants from around the globe, RIAT 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience for aviation enthusiasts and the general public alike. Stay tuned for further updates as we count down to this spectacular event at RAF Fairford.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the official RIAT website by clicking here.
