Airfield Operations Assistant
Location: Fairford
DETAILS
The Royal International Air Tattoo has been running for over 50 years and is staged in support of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust. The Royal Air Force Charitable Trust’s vision is to ignite the passion for aviation and space, and inspire young minds upwards. Empowering them with the knowledge, skills, inclusive opportunities and experiences to aspire and pursue a rewarding and innovative career in the field of aerospace.
What are we looking for?
We are looking to appoint an Assistant on a fixed-term contract who will support the Air Operations Manager in the planning and delivery of RIAT 26,
Your main responsibilities will include:
- To support the Air Operations department with the administration associated with aircraft and airfield operations for circa 250 visiting aircraft at RIAT 2026.
- Receipt, review and filing of aircraft insurance paperwork.
- Issuing of aircraft movement slots, maintaining both physical slot book and digital slots using bespoke IT software (RIAT Aircraft Administration System).
- Planning of validation trips for the Flying Display Team, including booking flights and accommodation for FCC/FDD travelling overseas and liaison with host nation.
- Monitoring Aircraft Administration IT System and communicating with RIAT participants.
- Monitoring & Actioning emails received in the Air Ops Department Shared Email Inbox.
- Distribution of daily flying programme during RIAT.
- Ad-Hoc Duties and Requirements to assist Air Operations Department, such as purchasing of equipment.
Type of contract/working hours:
FTC 7/04/2026 Until 07/08/2026
36.25 hours per week. Based in Fairford, Gloucestershire
All employees are required to work the Saturday or Sunday before the Royal International Air Tattoo and the whole weekend of the event.
RIAT Weekend Date: 17th-19th July 2026
What we will offer:
We offer a salary of £25,000 per annum (pro rata), along with the unique opportunity to be part of the world-famous Royal International Air Tattoo.
As part of the role, you’ll also receive two complimentary tickets to RIAT, plus an exclusive staff discount of 50% on up to six additional tickets—so you can share the experience with friends or family and enjoy the event from the inside.
As part of the role, you’ll also receive two complimentary tickets to RIAT, plus an exclusive staff discount of 50% on up to six additional tickets—so you can share the experience with friends or family and enjoy the event from the inside.
About you:
The ideal candidate will hold GCSE-level education or equivalent experience and possess essential knowledge of aircraft and airfield operations, including a strong understanding of military aircraft and their operating characteristics. They will bring proven administrative capability, strong written and verbal communication skills, and confidence using bespoke IT systems, supported by solid overall computer literacy. The successful applicant will be highly organised, able to prioritise effectively, and comfortable managing demanding workloads under time pressure while consistently maintaining excellent standards. Experience within aviation or military environments and familiarity with RIAT or other airshows would be advantageous. We are looking for a self‑motivated team player with a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and good sense of humour, committed to delivering high‑quality work and contributing positively to the team.
how to apply:
To apply, please submit a CV together with a covering letter outlining your interest in the role and how your experience aligns with the requirements.
Find Out More And Apply:
The whole job description is on our job portal, click here to see more. Applications close 31st March 2026.