Watch military jets train at low level through Welsh valleys. Viewing locations, photography tips, when to go, and where to stay. The original Mach Loop Guide since 2011
From accessible valley-floor views to dramatic hilltop perches above the jets — the Mach Loop has a spot for every visitor.
This short clip captures a Hawk T1 2-ship as viewed from Cad West. View more videos →
Press coverage and articles about the Mach Loop from around the web.
A significant military aviation operation is scheduled for 13 June 2026 as part of His Majesty The King’s Birthday celebrations, triggering extensive temporary airspace restrictions across North Sea approaches, East Anglia, and the London corridor. According to official Civil Aviation Authority airspace notifications, a large multi-aircraft formation will assemble offshore before routing through controlled corridors toward London for a ceremonial overflight of Buckingham Palace. The formation is expected to include assets such as the Red Arrows (see more https://rafredarrows.co.uk) and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) (see more http://rafbbmf.co.uk), operating alongside wider RAF and allied support elements. Two major restricted areas will be active, including a high-altitude corridor over the North Sea and East Anglia (FL100 and above restrictions between 1000–1300 UTC) and a lower-level funnel through Suffolk (5000 ft AMSL restriction between 1130–1225 UTC). The structure indicates a complex, tightly timed formation transit likely involving multiple aircraft types operating in sequenced waves, supported by coordinated RAF and civilian air traffic control integration. The routing suggests offshore marshal points, a traditional East Anglian ingress route, and multiple dispersal tracks west of London following the flypast.
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It is with great disappointment that organisers have confirmed this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo will not take place. The decision follows extensive discussions with the Royal Air Force and United States Air Force regarding uncertainty over access to RAF Fairford due to ongoing operational considerations linked to the situation in the Middle East. Organisers acknowledge the importance of RIAT to visitors, volunteers, partners, and the wider aviation community who return year after year, and have thanked everyone for their continued support and understanding. Ticket holders will be offered the option to roll over tickets to RIAT27, receive a full refund, or donate the cost to the RAF Charitable Trust in support of its wider charitable work. Chief Executive Officer Gavin Gager noted that while the decision is disappointing, there is strong commitment to bringing RIAT back in 2027.
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A specially painted F-15E Strike Eagle honouring the 1986 Libya raid made a striking debut over the Welsh valleys, turning heads across the spotting community.
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