Look on at leisure as history is made at the famous Royal International Air Tattoo

There are few family events in the Cotswolds this summer that give you the opportunity to see history in the making – but that’s exactly what’s on offer at RAF Fairford.

Among the many attractions at the world famous Royal International Air Tattoo will be the much anticipated international display debut of the most advanced fighter jet on the planet.

Two versions of the stealthy multirole F-35 Lightning II will be on display at RAF Fairford – the ‘A’ variant which performs a conventional take-off and landing, and the ‘B’ variant which has a vertical take-off and landing capability, similar to the much loved Harrier, that enables it to operate from out at sea.

With the Government planning to establish two front-line squadrons to operate from the UK’s two new aircraft carriers by 2023, the F-35’s display in the Cotswolds will provide people with the first chance to view the future of UK airpower – today!

Among other exciting aircraft taking part in the flying display will be the legendary Red Arrows, performing their show-stopping aerobatic routines in their trademark red Hawk TI jets.

With so much cutting-edge technology on display both in the air and on the ground, Air Tattoo organisers have chosen as their theme for 2016 The Next Generation: Inspiring Innovation.

Central to this is the airshow’s hugely popular Techno Zone which will look to fire the imagination of the next generation of engineers, scientists and aviators through a series of hands-on, interactive displays.

Also on the showground is a wide range of other attractions that appeal to all ages. You can enjoy a trip down memory lane in the Vintage Village, experience some high-energy entertainment in the Adrenalin Zone, or view a display of rare and beautifully maintained cars and motorbikes in the Autodrome.

Whatever excites you, there’s something for everyone at this summer’s Royal International Air Tattoo.

To find out more about what’s on offer at the Air Tattoo and to learn about the full range of enclosure ticket options, visit airtattoo.com. Under-16s are admitted free. Free parking.

WIN a pair of Cotswold Club tickets

Once again, Cotswold Life is proud to be the Air Tattoo’s official media partner for 2016 and to celebrate we are offering readers the opportunity to enjoy one of the UK’s most exciting days out from the comfort of a stylish enclosure.

The Cotswold Club, which has been established by the Air Tattoo in partnership with Cotswold Life, offers garden seating, a smart lawned area and crowdline location from which to enjoy all the aviation action, plus an inclusive tasty, relaxed Cotswold brunch.

Other benefits include afternoon tea, comprising a selection of cakes, muffins and brownies, a pay bar facility and private toilets.

If you would like the chance to win a pair of Cotswold Club tickets (including Air Tattoo admission) valid for Friday, July 8, please answer the below question…

Question: Which natural phenomenon is associated with an aircraft set to make aviation history at this summer’s Air Tattoo?

Please submit your answer here.

There are also three runner-up prizes of a pair of Friday public admission tickets to the Air Tattoo Even if you don’t win, you can still purchase an Air Tattoo admission ticket and entry to The Cotswold Club for just £104 (Friday, July 8) or £114 (Saturday, July 9 and Sunday, July 10). Terms & conditions: Competition closes at midday, Friday, May, 20. Entrants must be 18 years or older. Prizes are as stated. Full Archant terms and conditions can be found at www.cotswoldlife.co.uk