This year’s Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) had a touch of the transatlantic about it as the Royal Canadian Air Force marked their 100th birthday at the world-renowned airshow.
Celebrating all things Canada, they had a designated area on the show ground, routinely patrolled by their RCAF Centennial mascot Astra, who posed for pictures with visitors.
On Saturday morning crew members, engineers and the RCAF Commander, Lieutenant-General Eric Jean Kenny were presented a birthday cake from RIAT, in recognition of their centenary.
The Canadian’s arrived with a number of different aircraft, including a yellow Kingfisher for the first time which featured alongside other aircraft on their static display, while the CF-188 Hornet, which was in a special paint scheme for this year, took part in the flying display.
RIAT’s Head of Air Operations, Peter Reoch, said “It was a pleasure to host an exciting array of aircraft from our Canadian friends at the show this year, from the huge CC-177 Globemaster to the much smaller Chipmunk, there was something of interest for everyone.
“Friday’s special flypast with the Hornet alongside the RAF Red Arrows was the icing on the cake.”
RAF Fairford is the only place in Europe where the Canadians are recognising their landmark birthday, which has been a theme of this year’s alongside ‘Pushing the Boundaries in Air and Space’, 75-years of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and 50-years of the iconic F-16 Fighting Falcon.
Col Maggie Jacula, RCAF 2024 Campaign Manager said: “It is an absolute honour to be here at RIAT to celebrate the Centennial of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
“We have received such kind hospitality from the RIAT team and the general public who have come to visit our aircraft and crews and to enjoy a bit of Canadian at the RCAF Centennial Tent.
“It is wonderful to be able to share our Centennial with our British friends.”
On the 1st April 2024 the Royal Canadian Air Force celebrated their 100th anniversary as a distinct military element. The Centennial milestone places the RCAF in a unique position to honour its distinct heritage; recognise its tremendous people today; and generate excitement for its bright future.
Creating an enduring legacy that propels the institution forward into its next century of service, Canada’s Air Force will be showcased in a past, present and future context, with a focus on highlighting contributions to national safety and security, international peace and global stability.
The RCAF 2024 Team are curating a year-long program that includes International, National and Regional events, such as the RCAF Run, RCAF Gala, Legends of the Sky, and allied air demonstration team participation in Air Shows across Canada, as well as activities to Inspire future generations of Canadians through STEM initiatives, such as the RCAF Gaming Tournament.
The RCAF Centennial is an opportunity to showcase Air Force personnel and their accomplishments, demonstrate air and space power, enhance the reputation of the RCAF, and proudly honour its distinguished history and heritage.
Tickets for next year’s show are already on sale via AirTattoo.com.
Military News Today 
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