There's far more to enjoy at the Air Tattoo than just fabulous flying. On the ground youngsters can meet the pilots, sit in aircraft and enjoy the critically-acclaimed Tri@RIAT showground centrepiece.

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For the third year running, Tri@RIAT brings together a feast of entertaining and interactive activities that are specifically designed to inspire and excite youngsters. From engineering and robotics to sport and music, there’s a wealth of opportunities for young people to expand their horizons through play. Activities are centred on a large arena in which a variety of demonstrations and performances - from the bizarre to the brilliant - take place throughout the day.  Here are just some of this year's exciting Tri@RIAT events:

• RAF and Tri@RIAT - Getting the image of a modern Air Force across to the younger generation is a big priority for the RAF and interaction is at the heart of the Service’s Youth Strategy. Indeed, the thinking behind the approach is simple: if young people can get hands-on, then they can make up their own minds about the RAF. Consequently, for the past three years a network of Youth Activity Liaison Officers at all of the main RAF bases have been tasked with arranging activities that bring young people into contact with those in ‘light blue’.  Whether playing basketball at RAF Cosford, undertaking drill practice at RAF Halton, helping out in the Air Traffic Control Tower at RAF Cranwell or simply touring the various sections that make up a busy RAF station, thousands of youngsters across the country have been engaged, enabling them to get up close and personal with the modern RAF. Old stereotypes have been shattered as today’s youth discover what the RAF really does and really means.

 

• Landrover Terrapod - Appearing for the first time at RIAT we are pleased to welcome Land Rover's Terrapod experience which is located just behind the Tri@RIAT arena. This exciting exhibit provides visitors with an opportunity to try their hand at driving one of the latest Land Rovers on 'Terrapod' - an off-road course with hill climbs and descents that is guaranteed to give you an experice to remember!

• Imagineering - For another year, and through the support of the RAF Charitable Trust, we are pleased to see Imagineering at RIAT. A truly hands-on and inspiring experience, Imagineering provides a fascinating insight into the world of engineering.  See how things are made and work, get involved by trying your hand at a number of different experiences. The Imagineering Exhibition Marquee is located with the RAF's Recruiters to the west of the Tri@RIAT arena.

  

• RAF's Deployed Operating Base - Visit the Royal Air Force's Deployed Operating Base and see for yourself what life is like on deployed operations in places such as BASRA. Visit the state of the art Deployed Air Terminal with its exhibits. See a wide range of equipments, munitions and activities that will give you a real feel for what life is like in today's RAF. Take this golden opportunity to talk to the Servicemen and women involved with the display and hear at first hand what it is like to be in a world-leading Air Force.

• Bridgestone and Jenson Button - Interested in Formula One? Then you cannot afford to miss the Bridgestone exhibit at Tri@RIAT where you can examine at close quarters a Formula One racing car. On Saturday 12 July, there will be an opportunity to meet Jenson Button who will sign autographs and be available for photographs. 

 

• Kitcar Races - A team from the Sussex Army Cadet Force will demonstrate their ability to dismantle and rebuild a small Jeep-like vehicle in the time it takes to fill our cars with petrol.

• Battling Robots – The spectacular ‘Robot Arena’ where fighting machines cause metal mayhem as they battle their way to victory. 

  

• Stunt Car Driver Russ Swift - Russ' gravity defying stunts have to be seen to be believed and by the end of his display, your idea of parking will never be the same again! He holds 3 Guinness World Records for parallel parking in the tightest space. He also appeared on BBC's Top Gear.

• Today's Modern Army - Why not visit the Army's magnificent Recruiting Village, located just south of the Concert Stage. Meet the men and women of today's Army and learn about the life and equipment that is part of their everyday experience. Look around their impressive Chieftan Tank and Lynx helicopter both, part of an impressive static display that contains much, much more.

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Classic Cars, Fire Engines and Steam
Visit the awe-inspiring display of classic British and American motor vehicles and military fire engines - some of which were operational in WWII. Talk to the owners and learn about these lovingly restored and maintained masterpieces.  And if that is not enough, thrill to the smell and sound  of a fired-up steam traction engine.

 

Entertainment on the Concert Stage
In addition to the world-class flying display why not take time out and relax by enjoying the free entertainment provided throughout the day on the Concert Stage at the eastern end of the showground. During the day there are numerous acts to entertain you including the Band of the Irish Guards, Mr Mayhem and excerpts from a production of High School Musical.

After the flying has finished, why not join us for a FREE two hour outdoor concert.  This years concert will feature the rousing sounds of the Royal Air Force Squadronaires who will be swinging their way though the last 90 years! 

 

Crew Café
After marvelling at their flying skills, there is an the opportunity to meet many of the international Top Gun pilots – including the Red Arrows and the Thunderbirds – and collect their autographs at the Crew Café. 

 

Shopping
We have three main Shopping Malls where you will find a wide range of products and services to buy, or simply browse for ideas. With over 100 stands at RIAT, your guaranteed to find something to your liking.

Funfair
Kids can enjoy all the attractions at this year’s fun fair!

 

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