There will be an unusual sight in the skies above RAF Fairford next year when a truly unique aircraft makes its UK airshow debut and appears at the Royal International Air Tattoo.


A cross between a helicopter and a fixed wing aeroplane, the V-22 Osprey represents the future of rapid aerial military transport. Its rotor blades can tilt mid-air enabling it to take off vertically like a helicopter and then reconfigure to fly like a normal aircraft. Not only does this allow it to reach speeds twice as fast as a helicopter but it also enables it to carry heavier payloads and fly at higher altitudes.

The aircraft, which is currently being introduced into the US military, is a joint venture between aircraft manufacturers Bell and Boeing and its appearance at the Air Tattoo represents a major coup for the organisers.

Air Tattoo Director Tim Prince said it was a great bonus to have one of the stars of next year’s airshow confirmed so early on.

“The V-22 Osprey is a truly unique aircraft the likes of which we have never seen before. Its tilt rotors enable it to operate in a way that no other aircraft is capable of. Its participation demonstrates to me that the aerospace industry recognises the Air Tattoo as the place to showcase its latest aircraft.

“Earlier this year the Air Tattoo was chosen to stage the European debut of ScanEagle, a pilotless unmanned aerial vehicle, and the participation of the V-22 Osprey in 2006 will further cement our reputation for consistently pushing back the boundaries of aviation.”

Now all we need is an F-22 to be added to the list and I might be tempted to fork out the rather high entrance fee.