The Royal International Air Tattoo: Redefining Awesome for Aviation Photographers

As a seasoned aviation photographer who has attended both the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) and Oshkosh Airventure, I can say with confidence that RIAT is a far superior experience. I’m sure some would argue that you can’t compare the two events. Because one being the world’s largest military airshow and the other is the world’s largest fly-in. But both are world-renowned events that draw thousands of aviation photographers. And that’s how I’m going to compare RIAT with Oshkosh Airventure, as an aviation photographer and not as an airshow enthusiast. My reasoning is threefold. First, the unparalleled variety of attending aircraft. Second, the nonstop and lengthy flying displays, and finally, the unmatched quality of the catering to photographers. It is because of this unique combination that sets RIAT apart from AirVenture.

Let’s start with the unparalleled variety of attending aircraft. Holy fuck! Where do I begin? How about the 20-plus F-16s on the “Viper Line” from 8 different Air Forces. Or the stunning pairs of F-4 Phantoms from Turkey and Greece. What about the two new F-15QA Advanced Eagles from Qatar. Plus, the six national aerobatic teams, which included Swiss Air Force Patrouille Suisse, the Saudi Hawks, the Finish Air Force Midnight Hawks, the RAF Red Arrows, the Royal Jordanian Falcons, and the petite Yellow Sparrows from the Royal Norwegian Air Force. Let’s not forget the single-ship demos. Starting with the Eurofighter Typhoon demos from the RAF, the Luftwaffe, and the Italian Air Force. Alongside two Gripen demos from the Czech and Swedish Air Forces. Also, those beautifully painted F-16 demo teams from Turkey and the Danish Air Forces. Along with the stunning Royal Canadian Air Force CF-188 Hornet in it’s 100^th anniversary livery. Last but not least, the two noise makers. The RAF F-35B and the Spanish Navy EAV-8B demos.

Click or tap (on mobile) thumbnail to view larger image

Most airshows and aviation events start flying about 11:30 to 12 o’clock and the show wraps up around about 3:30 to 4 o’clock. RIAT on the other hand, starts its flying displays at 9 AM and goes nonstop to 5 in the afternoon with little to no downtime in between demos. There’s not even a break for lunch! Quoting Top Gun, it’s a target-rich environment. Some of the highlights from this year for me were the Royal Danish Air Force F-16 demo that sported an amazing 50^th anniversary of the F-16 liveries, the Qatar agile fly by wire-controlled F-15QA, and the impressive fighter-like aerobatics of the Italian C-27J Spartan. It was refreshing seeing numerous European fighters as well as the rare bonus of the USAF flew two U-2s during Saturday’s show.

Click or tap (on mobile) thumbnail to view larger image

Last but not least, the unparalleled level of catering to photographers.The Friends of RIAT (FRIAT)package provides the best access I’ve ever seen at any airshow or aviation event. It not only gives you entry to the show but also includes access to arrival and departure days with choice of various shooting locations including an elevated Grandstand along with flying programs available daily. No need to wait in long lines for food and restroom breaks. Within the FRIAT area, there is dedicated catering, private restrooms and not the standard port-a potty. There’s also luggage facility to securely keep your camera bag overnight, so you’re not having to lug it in and out of the show each day. Also, for protection from Mother Nature, the FRIAT enclosure has a large tent with plenty of tables and chairs to get out of the elements if need be. Conveniently, there is also a lense rental service within the FRIAT area with tons of big & fast glass for Canon, Nikon, and Sony mounts. Other included amenities are an official RIAT souvenir program, and exclusive FRIAT gift. This year’s gift was a gold-colored F-16 pin to celebrate the 50^th anniversary of the Fighting Falcon.

Click or tap (on mobile) thumbnail to view larger image

Let us recap, the Royal International Air Tattoo offers an unparalleled variety of attending aircraft, nonstop and lengthy flying displays and the unmatched services that caters to photographers. Oshkosh’s Airventure is an event that every aviation enthusiast and photographer should experience at least once in their lives. And if it blows you away, then go to the Royal International Air Tattoo to redefine awesome.

Click or tap (on mobile) thumbnail to view larger image