PACIFIC AIRSHOW DROPS 2026 LINE-UP FROM 15,000ft

After a forced hiatus in 2025 due to Cyclone Alfred, one of the country’s most spectacular live events is preparing for its boldest show yet.

To launch the 2026 performer announcement, Pacific Airshow went full throttle and took the reveal straight to the skies with a world-first live DJ set at 15,000 feet. Lights pulsed, bass thumped, and the cabin became a full-blown aerial rave. Then, with the music still blasting, those onboard parachuted down onto Surfers Paradise.

The Gold Coast will once again host the world’s best and most daring pilots from 14 to 16 August – delivering a blockbuster new line-up, debut aircraft and an elevated hospitality experience, raising the bar for live events in Australia.

“This is not just the return of our event, it’s the launch of a new era for Pacific Airshow on the Gold Coast. From the sky to the sand, the whole experience this year is elevated,” said Kevin Elliott, Pacific Airshow CEO & Director.

This year’s program introduces brand-new aircraft, international pilots and never-before-seen stunt routines that push the limits of what’s possible above water.

2026 Line-Up Highlights*:

Jeff Boerbon Yak-110, a mad-scientist masterpiece: two Yak-55 fuselages fused into one with a jet engine strapped in the middle. Loud, fast, outrageous.

Gravity Industries Jet Suits bend reality, in a Pacific Airshow first, human flight, right over the sand.

United States Air Force Wings of Blue Parachute Team bring terminal-velocity theatre, including their iconic “Bomb Burst” as they punch through the sky above the beach.

United States Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey is back, the airshow’s cult favourite tiltrotor.

Queensland Fire Department Air Attack Demo turns the beach into a live-action emergency response showcase, big visuals, real capability.

Gold Coast Skydive dial up the adrenaline with flags, flares and flips landing right in front of the crowd.

Matt Hall The reigning Red Bull Air Race world champion returns to the Gold Coast.

Greg Colyer T-33 – the only aircraft of its kind in Australia. 

Emma McDonald (EA-300) lights up the coastline with razor-sharp aerobatics and elite racing pedigree.

Screaming Diamonds weaving and diving in a colourful display set to impress even the biggest of kids on the beach.

Aircraft aren’t the only debut, in 2026 Pacific Airshow is introducing a reimagined premium hospitality program – a luxurious, elevated experience for those who want to do their skywatching in style.

Beach Club: A first-class, catered beachfront enclosure with direct sightlines to every pass and roll, including open bar, food, exclusive access to pilot meet-and-greets.

Garden Bar: A luxury and stylish, hosted space with shaded seating, drinks, live airshow pilot commentary and beach games. Tickets for Garden Bar are already limited.

Private Cabanas: Bespoke beachfront cabanas for brands and groups, with white-glove service, shaded daybeds, and champagne on arrival.

In 2024, nearly 300,000 people packed the shoreline across three huge days, with the skies delivering perfect conditions for non-stop aerial action and entertainment. The surge of visitors generated a $33 million boost for the local economy.

Queensland’s Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell, said: “The Pacific Airshow is a high impact event with far reaching benefits that helps Queensland soar as Australia’s events capital,” Minister Powell said.

“It’s not only the high-flying action overhead, it is the full beachfront experience that draws an estimated 17,000 people to visit this state generating more than 106,000 visitor nights, that’s people staying in our accommodation, dining in our restaurants and supporting local business.”

After Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred halted last year’s event, Tom Tate said the City of Gold Coast has been working around the clock on beach recovery works.

“We are renowned as Australia’s favourite holiday destination and this event takes our reputation to the next level,’’ said Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate.

“It’s going to be party time in the air and family entertainment on the ground with a huge array of activities for families throughout the three days. 

The City has been working to restore the open beaches and I know Kevin and his team have built on the success of the 2024 show by adding even more breathtaking aerobatics and aerial displays. It’s time to Get Up and Gold Coast.’’

 Tickets for Pacific Airshow Gold Coast are already on sale here.

*Please note: Australian Royal Airforce Force aircraft will be announced later this year in conjunction with our second release of Performers.

Media note: For further information contact Jesse Burns at Pacific Airshow. 0433776565