RIAT Announces Four Additional American Aircraft in 4th of July Update
RAF Fairford, United Kingdom – In a fitting tribute to American aviation, the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) scheduled to take place from Friday, 19th of July to Sunday, 21st of July 2024 has announced the addition of four U.S. aircraft to its lineup for the 4th of July celebrations. This update promises to enhance the already impressive roster of aircraft set to participate in this year’s event.
Among the newly confirmed aircraft are the F-35A Lightning II and the F-15E Strike Eagle, both from the 48th Fighter Wing at RAF Lakenheath. These aircraft, which are regular supporters of RIAT, will be on static display throughout the three-day event, offering attendees the chance to admire their cutting-edge technology and design up close.
USAF F-15E and F-35A
Royal International Air Tatttoo 2023
Adding to the excitement, the B-52 Stratofortress bomber from Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana will also be on static display. Known for its long-range strategic bombing capabilities, the B-52’s presence is sure to be a highlight for many visitors, showcasing the immense power and history of this iconic aircraft.
The 99th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron, based at RAF Fairford, will be featuring their U-2 “Dragon Lady” reconnaissance aircraft. This aircraft, renowned for its high-altitude surveillance capabilities, will be available for static display over the weekend. In a special treat for attendees, the squadron will conduct a launch and recovery of the U-2 on Friday as part of the flying display program. The sight and sound of the U-2 in flight is a rare experience that promises to be a memorable highlight of the show.
In addition to these American aircraft, RIAT organizers have revealed a significant participant for the special NATO 75th Anniversary flypast on Friday, July 19th. The rare Royal Air Force RC-135 Rivet Joint electronic surveillance aircraft, which has only been seen once before at RIAT, will lead this special multinational flypast. This exclusive event will also feature the previously announced NATO E-3A Sentry and a number of fast jet aircraft. While the fast jets will operate from RAF Fairford, the RC-135 will fly from its home base at RAF Waddington.
Further bolstering the Royal Air Force’s participation, the F-35B Lightning II will be on static display, in addition to its previously announced flying participation. This addition underscores the RAF’s commitment to showcasing its advanced capabilities at RIAT.
However, the event has also seen some unfortunate withdrawals. The Joint Aviation Command’s Wildcat AH1 will no longer be attending due to a priority operational tasking for the unit. Additionally, the organizers have made the difficult decision to remove the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) Spitfire and Hurricane from the participation list. These aircraft are currently grounded following a tragic Spitfire crash earlier this year, and they are not expected to be available for RIAT 2024. Nonetheless, there is still hope that the Avro Lancaster may participate, pending formal confirmation from the Royal Air Force.
As RIAT continues to finalize its lineup, the event promises to deliver an unparalleled experience for aviation enthusiasts and the general public alike. The addition of these remarkable aircraft ensures that the 4th of July celebrations at RIAT will be a memorable tribute to the enduring legacy of American and allied air power.
For more information and to buy your tickets, visit the official Air Tattoo website by clicking here.
