The event had been scheduled to take place from Friday 17th July to Sunday 19th July.
In a statement, organisers said the decision followed “extensive discussions” with both the RAF and United States Air Force regarding the operational use of the base.
RAF Fairford is currently hosting American strategic bomber aircraft, including B-52s and B-1Bs, as part of ongoing military activity connected to Iran.
The cancellation is expected to have a significant economic impact across Swindon and the wider area.
Tens of thousands of visitors normally travel through the town during RIAT weekend, with many choosing to stay locally due to Swindon’s proximity to Fairford and its strong rail connections.
Hotels typically sell out months in advance, while pubs, restaurants, taxi firms and shops see a sharp rise in trade.
Businesses around Junction 16, the town centre and Old Town often benefit from the influx of aviation crews, photographers and tourists basing themselves in Swindon.
Gavin Gager, Chief Executive of Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises, said organisers recognised how disappointing the decision would be for aviation fans, volunteers, businesses and local communities.
The airshow regularly attracts close to 200,000 visitors across the weekend and is regarded as one of the South West’s largest annual tourism events.
Previous shows have featured more than 250 aircraft and delegations from dozens of countries.
The decision marks only the fourth full cancellation in RIAT’s history.
The event was previously called off in 2008 due to severe flooding and in 2020 and 2021 because of the Covid pandemic.
Organisers confirmed that ticket holders will be offered the option to roll tickets over to 2027, request a refund, or donate the value to the RAF Charitable Trust.
They added that they remain committed to bringing the event back in 2027.
The cancellation also highlights RAF Fairford’s continuing strategic military role, despite its association locally with one of the world’s largest aviation gatherings.
