GOLD COAST: NEW PERFORMERS ADDED
Fans have been waiting, and we've delivered. Pacific Airshow's Performer Drop II is here. It's the kind of lineup that makes you look at the calendar on the bathroom wall, ring your mates, and stake out a patch of sand early.
From 14-16 August 2026, Surfers Paradise Beach turns into the best seat in the country. Three days of world-class aviation displays playing out directly over the water. And Drop II brings the heat.
"Our first performer drop set the tone, this announcement brings the firepower," said Kevin Elliott, Pacific Airshow CEO & Director.
"To have the RAAF rolling out its frontline jets alongside a raft of Australia's best civilian performers is exactly the calibre of lineup the Gold Coast deserves. This is world-class aviation against one of the most iconic skylines in the world, right over the water, there's nothing else like it in the country."
Leading the charge: the F-35. The RAAF is set to roll out its frontline firepower with the F-35 Lightning II, fifth-generation stealth. When this jet lights the burners over the beach, those below will feel it.
The legendary Roulettes bring their signature precision (and red-and-white stripes), backed by No. 100 Squadron, and the C-130 Hercules.
And if that wasn't enough, fans can strap in for the BO-105 Aerobatic Helicopter Display, taking to Australian skies for its first-ever aerobatic display in the hands of pilot Bryce Nietvelt.
Performer Drop II Line-Up:
➵ RAAF F-35 Lightning II - fifth-generation stealth fighter, the RAAF's frontline jet.
➵ RAAF Roulettes - the RAAF's formation aerobatic display team.
➵ RAAF No. 100 Squadron - the RAAF's heritage warbird fleet.
➵ RAAF C-130 Hercules - the RAAF's workhorse transport aircraft.
➵ PC-9 - RAAF training aircraft.
➵ Bryce Nietvelt, BO-105 Aerobatic Helicopter Display - its first-ever aerobatic display in Australia.
➵ Southern Knights Display Team - formation warbird display team.
➵ Red Star Roolettes Display Team - formation aerobatic display team.
➵ Jeff "Trappo" Trappett, C-47 - restored WWII-era transport aircraft.
➵ Andrew Kennedy, CAC Mustang + P-40 Kittyhawk - iconic WWII fighters.
➵ Twin Vipers - high-energy formation aerobatic act.
➵ McDermott Aviation, C-160 Display - firefighting display.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell MP said Pacific Airshow was exactly the kind of world-class event helping to cement Queensland as Australia's events capital "When you combine some of the world's best aviation performers with the iconic Surfers Paradise skyline, you create an event people will travel across Australia and around the world to experience," Minister Powell said.
"Pacific Airshow is bringing thousands of visitors to Queensland, filling hotels, supporting local businesses, and showcasing the Gold Coast on a global stage.
"With more than 19,000 visitors expected to travel specifically for the event and more than $26 million forecast to flow into the economy, Pacific Airshow highlights why Queensland continues to lead the nation in major events."
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said:
"It's fantastic to see airshow organisers continue to attract the best aviators and attractions from across the globe, all focused on delivering an incredible three days of entertainment."
"Anyone who has not yet seen what the Pacific Airshow can deliver must make a date with the Gold Coast next month and be prepared to be amazed. It's a party in the skies and on the ground."
A word to the keen: the Garden Bar has already sold out for Saturday. If you want in on the premium action, don't sit on your hands.
For the full lineup, event info and premium experiences, head to https://pacificairshowaus.com/
Pacific Airshow Gold Coast 2026 - Surfers Paradise Beach - 14-16 August 2026.
