Message from RAFCT Chairman Phil Osborn

Published: 22 Feb 2021

It is of course hugely disappointing that we have had to cancel the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) this year. This was a very difficult decision that we all know will have saddened all of our supporters, partners, sponsors, volunteers, and employees. However, it was the right decision to ensure that the Charity, our trading company, RAF Charitable Trust Enterprises, and RIAT can endure and grow into the future. And we remain ambitious. The Royal Air Force Charitable Trust already does amazing work inspiring young people to fulfil their potential in air and space, supporting RAF personnel, and promoting the Royal Air Force. We fulfil a unique, forward-looking role within the RAF family of charities, valuing young people and the essential part they play in all our futures. Because of this, we want to do more, much more, and you will hear about our plans a little later in the year. An integral part of the Trust's work is of course RIAT, and hence we look forward to RIAT22, which we and our Company will work hard to ensure not just remains the amazing experience that it has always been, but is more accessible than ever through on-line and social media. On the way, and as conditions allow, we will also look to offer you opportunities to engage with the latest in air and space, and the marvellous RIAT community, while supporting the work of the Charitable Trust. So, please keep in touch with us and watch out for further announcements. Finally, I just want to say a massive thank you for helping us get through this highly challenging time. Whether it be through the dedication and hard work of all of our employees, the many thousands of messages of support we have received over the last year, your generous donations to the Trust, or for agreeing to roll over your tickets and sponsorship to RIAT22, you are all making a fantastic and essential contribution to sustaining and growing our Charity, and of course the world's best military air show. You have my heartfelt thanks, and the gratitude of the many, many young people we are able to support. Air Marshal Phil Osborn Chairman, RAF Charitable Trust