and was better than the potential monsoon predicted (though the Friday had a dam good go at it).
2023 saw the welcome return of some old favourites and some new novelty acts which makes RIAT the photo opportunity it is.
Anyway, my brief take on some of the highlights for me (though I appreciate I haven't covered them all)
1. With a theme of AirTanker, RIAT didn't disappoint with some unusual formation flypasts including this MC-130J and CV-22B.
2. The Italians arrived en-masse to provide some colourful examples celebrating their Air Forces' 100 year anniversary.
3. The Harrier also returned in force with 2 examples each from both the Spanish and Italian Navys.
4. Which allowed a unique opportunity to see the old and new versions of STOVL capability flying together.
5. For many (including me!) the real highlight was the return of the fantastic Phantom.
6. Though I have to admit the Polish Fitter was a superb addition to the line up.
7. Then of course there was the flying display which included this very colourful and well-flown French Rafale.
8. The weather played havoc for many, though the Finnish F/A-18C Hornet managed to find some blue sky on the Saturday.
9. While others like the Belgian Dream Viper display had to contend with the elements (still the best F-16 display I've ever seen though!)
10. At least the wet conditions provided some good burner and vapour opportunities courtesy this time of the Italian F2000A.
11. The Swedish Gripen E even tried to add fire to the mix.
12. And who could forget the B52 finally being on the flying display again (albeit mostly spent orbiting over Brize Norton).
13. The Germans also had a large contingent with an impressive A400 and Tornado AAR demo team.
14. All in all an excellent show again with plenty of variety, well done RIAT! Wont be long before these take over the flying programme though.
Enjoy it while you can.
Bless them! 