7 July 2012 Last updated at 09:17 ET

Royal International Air Tattoo expected to attract thousands

The Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford is world's biggest military air show

Around 130,000 aviation enthusiasts are expected at a rain soaked RAF Fairford this weekend for the 2012 Royal International Air Tattoo.

The Gloucestershire event, which is celebrating 41 years, is the world's biggest military air show and attracted more than 150,000 people last year.

Planes on show include the only remaining airworthy Vulcan bomber.

Named The Spirit of Great Britain, the delta-winged XH558 is seen as the most iconic aircraft of the Cold War era.

"Anyone who hasn't seen the Vulcan display really ought to while they have the chance," said event chief executive Tim Prince.

Vulcan XH558 is the last remaining airworthy aircraft of its kind in the world

"Those who have seen it, return again and again to experience its power, grace and beauty.

"It conjures up similar emotions to those felt by people who saw Concorde display. There's a palpable sense of awe in the crowd."

The Vulcan XH558, which is funded largely by public donations, first flew on August 30 1952. It has been piloted by the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince of Wales and Prince Michael of Kent.

Other highlights this year include the first ever Japanese aircraft at a European military airshow and the B-2 Stealth bomber from America.

Organisers are also working alongside the Royal Air Force to stage a number of special aerial tributes to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.