Royal International Air Tattoo moves to Boscombe Down near Salisbury from 2027

The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT), one of the world's largest military airshows, is set to move to MOD Boscombe Down near Amesbury from 2027, bringing a major international aviation event closer to Salisbury and the surrounding Wiltshire communities.

The organisers have confirmed that the event will move from its long-standing home at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire to MOD Boscombe Down, marking a new chapter for the internationally recognised airshow.

The announcement is particularly significant for Wiltshire, with the new location expected to bring thousands of aviation enthusiasts, families and international visitors to the area.

RIAT 2027 is scheduled to take place from Friday, July 16, to Sunday, July 18, 2027. Tickets are already on sale through the official Air Tattoo website.

The move follows uncertainty surrounding the future availability of RAF Fairford, which has been used as an operational base by the United States Air Force. Organisers have said the decision is intended to provide greater certainty and protect the long-term future of the event.

MOD Boscombe Down, located close to Amesbury and Salisbury, has a long association with military aviation and aircraft testing. Its selection provides an opportunity to bring one of the world's most recognised aviation events to Wiltshire.

For local residents, the move could represent a significant opportunity for the regional visitor economy, with hotels, restaurants, shops, transport providers and other local businesses potentially benefiting from the increased number of visitors.

The event attracts aviation enthusiasts from across the world, with more than 200 aircraft and almost 200,000 visitors attending in a typical year.

Visitors can expect a combination of spectacular flying displays, military aircraft, static exhibitions and activities for families. The event also supports the work of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, helping inspire young people through science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) activities.

One of the announced themes for RIAT 2027 is the 'Tiger Gathering', marking 50 years since the Silver Tiger Trophy was originally presented to the NATO Tiger Association. The special gathering is expected to feature aircraft from NATO Tiger units, including aircraft displaying distinctive tiger-inspired designs.

The 2027 event will also mark the return of RIAT following the cancellation of the 2026 show, which organisers called off because of uncertainty surrounding access to RAF Fairford.

The organisers have confirmed that the move to Boscombe Down is intended to secure the event's future while creating opportunities to develop the visitor experience in the years ahead.

The relocation is welcome news for Wiltshire, putting the county on the international aviation calendar and potentially providing a boost to tourism and businesses across Salisbury, Amesbury and the wider region.

Further information about tickets, visitor arrangements and the 2027 programme is available through the official website at www.airtattoo.com.