Poor weather conditions forced the Red Arrows to cancel their display on day one of RIAT.
The RAF squadron confirmed on Friday, the first day of the Royal International Air Tattoo show at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, that the ‘atrocious weather’ was ‘not fit’ for the display to go ahead.
A yellow weather warning has been issued this weekend with thunderstorms likely.
Air Tattoo Day 1 - regrettably, the atrocious weather at RAF Fairford is not fit for our aerobatic display to take place this afternoon for @airtattoo.
— Red Arrows (@rafredarrows) July 14, 2023
Some took to social media to express their disappointment about the cancellation.
Deborah Rogers said: "Shame … saw you coming in and was hopeful but safety is paramount."
Nicki Foster added: "Was gutted but understand safety must come first."
Forecasts of poor weather conditions had already led to the cancellation of the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight display at this year’s show.
Despite the weather, the organisers said the event would continue today (Saturday).
They said: "We understand that the weather forecast has caused concern among those who have tickets for Saturday 15 July.
"Colleagues within our Air Operations team are in constant communication with the Met Office who are also on site at RAF Fairford.
"We can confirm that having reviewed all relevant information Saturdays RIAT will take place as planned.
"For people who are travelling to us tomorrow we encourage them to wear warm waterproof clothing and appropriate footwear."
The theme of this year's event is is SKYTANKER23 as the show celebrates the history of air-to-air refuelling.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here