Fairford Air Tattoo Cancelled Today
The first day of one of the world's largest armed forces events has been cancelled.
Organisers of the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, announced late on Friday that the Saturday show has been cancelled due to heavy rain.
Heavy rain in recent days has resulted in parts of the airfield showground and surrounding car parks being waterlogged.
Tim Prince, Air Tattoo Director, said: "It is with great regret that we had to take the decision to cancel the airshow on the Saturday but the safety of the public is paramount.
"When it became clear that we could not guarantee the safety of the many thousands of people who had bought tickets for Saturday, the decision to cancel was straightforward.
He added: "We are aware of the inconvenience our decision will have on the many thousands of people who have bought tickets for the Saturday but the potential risk of there being significant difficulties on the roads, in our car parks on the airbase itself were too high".
RIAT Ticket Refunds
Those who purchased advance tickets for Saturday 12th July are entitled to a refund.
Armed Forces International advises readers affected to visit the Air Tattoo website for details.
The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) is the world's largest military air show.
Over 200 military aircraft are due to attend.
First staged in 1971, this year's show is due to see 34 air arms from Europe, North America, South America and Asia attend the event.
RIAT Sunday 13th July
A decision about whether the second day of the Air Tattoo will go ahead is due to be made by 1600 GMT on Saturday afternoon.
Organisers are hopeful the second day will be staged.
Highlights of the show include the first European appearance of the United States Air Force F-22A Raptor.
On Friday, RIAT was opened with a Royal Air Force Colours Ceremony attended by HM The Queen.
Other features include a gathering of seven national military aerobatic teams including the Red Arrows.
Source - Armed Forces International's Aviation Expert
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