How your kids can see ice from Antarctica, meet the Red Arrows and talk to an astronaut at this year's RIAT
- 8th Jul 2024
Despite being renowned for its aerial displays, there is still plenty to see on the ground at this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT).
From Friday 19th-21st July, RAF Fairford transforms from a rural airfield to a major event which hosts 150,000 people over the weekend period, with aircraft descending on the Cotswolds from all over the world.
With a handful of aircraft still to be announced, the show has experienced record demand with tickets selling out for both Friday and Saturday, with only limited tickets remaining for Sunday.
On the ground, there are hundreds of aircraft to view ranging from huge tankers down to the cutting edge of aviation in electric aircraft.
In addition to the static display, there is the show’s Techno Zone® and Inspire Stage which are bigger than ever before.
The Inspire Stage, which is attached to the Techno Zone®, is where young people can listen to industry leaders about their experiences in aviation.
Run by RIAT’s parent charity, the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, it aims to encourage young people to consider careers in aerospace.
This year, youngsters will be able to learn about the work of the British Antarctic Survey, meet the Red Arrows and hear how Dr Meganne Christian went from being a scientist to a Reserve Astronaut for the European Space Agency.
RAFCT Head of Charity Development, Hannah Langford said: “We’re really excited to offer an action packed Inspire Stage schedule across all three days of the show this year.
“We have some names joining us, including crowd favourites the Red Arrows, and Tom Fletcher from McFly talking about his passion for aviation and RIAT, as well as speaking directly to the other side of the world with a live link to Antarctica.
“But we’re also really looking forward to introducing you to some of the young up-and-coming air, space and technology stars of the future.”
Meanwhile, the Techno Zone® is an area bustling with activity and bursting at the seams with interactive tech exhibits.
Divided into four areas, Space, Foundations of Engineering, Come and Play and Cyber and Virtual Reality, the STEM hub, which is bigger than 12 tennis courts, has almost 40 exhibits for people to explore.
Techno Zone® and Sponsorship Manager, Katherine Whinney said: “Techno Zone® 2024 will captivate visitors with an array of thrilling new exhibits.
“Among the highlights are Metaverse VR, offering an out-of-Earth adventure with an AI avatar, and MDA Space showcasing their lunar landing games and cutting-edge space technology. Techno Zone® is a must-see destination for under-18s when visiting RIAT."
