Tim Peake and co have youngsters shooting for the stars

Thousands of children could be considering careers in STEM or aviation after visiting the Techno-Zone at this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo.

Within the Techno Zone®, children, young people and adults can get their hands on the latest technology exhibits as part of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust’s ambition to inspire young people into the sector.

Industry leaders such as BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin and others all had exhibitions within the enclosure, which is roughly the size of 12 tennis courts.

As well as exhibits, this year’s RIAT also saw the return of the Inspire Stage following a successful introduction to the event programme last year.

The stage, which is within the Techno Zone®, sees a schedule of activity across the three-day aviation showcase including talks from the likes of young pilot, Jack Jenner Hall, space expert Dr Alice Bunn and astronaut Maj Tim Peake, who spoke in front of children on Friday and Saturday.

Reflecting on his involvement in this year’s show, the 51-year-old said: “I think at RIAT you get this amazing mix of a real international flavour, it is Royal International Air Tattoo but you get to see displays from all see the world and you can get up close and personal with the aircraft.

“We have the Techno Zone®, which is brilliantly inspiring for young kids and students, it’s got everything you need.”  

Event organisers estimate over 10,000 children to be present at this year’s Air Tattoo, with over 250 aircraft also on either flying or static display.

RIAT provides a focal point for its parent charity, the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, who receive a donation from the event every year.

Director of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, Justine Morton said: “We’ve been overwhelmed with the amount of support we’ve seen from children and young people this year.

“We are extremely passionate about igniting young peoples’ interest in STEM and want to say a huge thank you to everyone who appeared on the Inspire Stage, or engaged with children at their tech exhibits in the Techno Zone®.”