got thousands of pairs of eyes on it all day.” Jason’ s unit brought a Lockheed Martin CC 130J Hercules to RIAT 2025. He spends most of the show answering questions about the Hercules’ cargo role, its range, and its missions.
Emily R., Techno Zone ® Facilitator“ We want every child who walks in here to get hands on. It could be building a paper glider, flying a drone on a simulator, or talking to an actual engineer about what they do. Our job is to make STEM real and fun – this is the part of the show where you can see future pilots or engineers starting their journey.” Emily leads one of the STEM stands, coordinating demonstrations and making sure visiting speakers, like astronaut Tim Peake, have everything set up properly.
Flight Sergeant Mike L., ATC Coordinator“ For us, RIAT is busy in a way that normal operations aren’ t. You’ ve got military fast jets, large transports, and helicopters all running tight slots in mixed airspace. One delay in a display can ripple down the schedule. We rehearse weeks before and go through contingencies so we’ re not deciding under pressure.”
Mike’ s role is to liaise between air traffic controllers and the flying display director. He spends most of his time in the tower or in direct radio contact with display aircraft.
Richard P., Car Park Team Lead“ Moving that amount of traffic through country roads takes planning. Our team gets here before gates open and we’ re still working after the last aircraft lands. My favourite moments are seeing families unload for the day – picnic chairs, cameras, coolboxes – people come prepared to stay all day.” Richard oversees a rotating team of volunteers managing several car park zones. They direct vehicles in, respond to breakdowns, and keep traffic moving by coordinating with local police.
Lieutenant Anna G., International Crew Liaison“ Some crews travel halfway round the world for RIAT. We help with everything from hotel checkins to finding a missing box of display equipment. It’ s about making them feel welcome and supported, so they can focus on the show.” Anna works as a link between visiting air forces and RIAT organisers, managing schedules, transport, and any issues crews might have during their stay.
50