Catch Pacific Airshow Gold Coast’s Second Wave
Next round of performers announced!
Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is excited to announce its second wave of extraordinary performers for this year’s Event, taking place from 16 to 18 August at Surfers Paradise. With a strong emphasis on fast jets, parachute teams and even a military band, the new stars, along with the previously announced performers, promise to deliver an outstanding experience.
USAF F-22 Raptor
Royal Australian Air Force’s F/A-18F Super Hornet Handling Display – Experience the power and agility of the RAAF Super Hornet, performing high-speed manoeuvres and showcasing its advanced capabilities. “It’s back! Australia’s very own RAAF F/A-18 Super Hornet will again star at our airshow, promising another adrenaline-pumping performance,” said Elliott.
Two United States Air Force F-22 Raptors from 19th Fighter Squadron – Flying all the way from Hawaii’s Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, the F-22s will provide a sneak peek into why they are among the most feared and lethal fighter jets in the world “We are excited to announce that the F-22 Raptor is making its Pacific Airshow Gold Coast debut with not one but TWO of these incredible machines!” said Kevin Elliott, Airshow Director. “The stealthy F-22 Raptor is one of the most powerful, manoeuvrable and all-round badass 5th generation fighters ever created and you’ll get to see them make a rare appearance over the beaches of Surfers Paradise. This will be one you do not want to miss!
United States Navy P-8 Poseidon – Witness the capabilities of this maritime patrol and reconnaissance jet aircraft, renowned for its skill in submarine hunting and intelligence gathering. "The US military is really warming to the Gold Coast, so it’s also sending a lethal P-8 Poseidon, the latest generation sub hunter, putting fear into the heart of many a submariner,” Elliott said.
Royal Air Force Falcons Parachute Display Team – The Falcons are the United Kingdom's premier military parachute display team, based at RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire. Travelling all the way from the UK, this elite team will demonstrate their exceptional parachuting skills, delivering a spectacular display of precision and bravery with their famous and unique formation skydiving. “We are honoured to welcome our friends from the United Kingdom and happy to note that the world is taking notice and getting involved with the Pacific Airshow brand,” said Elliott.
Australian Defence Force Red Berets Parachute Display Team – Our own highly skilled team will perform thrilling parachute jumps, showcasing the ADF’s world-class precision and training. “The Falcons, alongside the ADF Red Berets and the US Navy SEAL Leap Frogs, showcase a remarkable trio of military precision and cooperation,” said Elliott. “It's truly inspiring to see these top-tier teams come together and perform on the Gold Coast.”
C-17 or C-27 Aircraft – The RAAF will send one of its versatile transport aircraft depending on operational availability, promising to add another layer of excitement with their impressive size and capabilities.
Australian Army Band Brisbane – Enjoy the musical talents of the Australian Army Band, providing toe-tapping good times throughout the event.
3 x aircraft from Royal Australian Air Force 100 Squadron:
Canberra Jet Bomber – The Vietnam War-era jet bomber showcases the RAAF’s rich heritage of military aviation.
Spitfire – With good looks and performance to match, renowned for its role in World War II, the Battle of Britain champion Spitfire remains a symbol of aviation excellence, known for its exceptional performance and pivotal role in the Battle of Britain.
A-37 Dragonfly – A light attack aircraft known for its agility and versatility, widely used during the Vietnam War for close air support missions, adding a dynamic element to the show.
“This year’s Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is a testament to the strength and unity of the AUKUS partnership. The elite US Navy SEAL’s Leap Frogs team, the RAF Falcons Display Team and the ADF Red Berets showcase a remarkable display of military precision and cooperation,” said Elliott. “As I always say, this is not just an airshow – we are redefining the airshow experience as a celebration of our shared commitment to excellence and collaboration.”
Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is set to be an unforgettable experience on the ground as the event continues to grow in size and global visibility.
“The jets keep getting faster, and the lineup bigger and better,” said Mayor Tom Tate.
“This is going to be an aerial spectacular you won’t want to miss. Bring it on!”
Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn said, “Pacific Airshow Gold Coast delivered beyond our expectations in 2023 with a quarter of a million people turning out to enjoy the action, proving yet again that this City can successfully host the world’s biggest events. 2024 is shaping up to be even more impressive and we’re expecting even bigger crowds bringing with them an economic injection topping $25M.”
To purchase general admission or hospitality tickets - think luxurious on-sand suites with spectacular beach views, sipping on your favourite beverage and countless moments of awe - visit www.pacificairshow.com Adult General Admission starts at an affordable $50 for one day and $100 for a three-day pass. One Day General Admission Family Passes for two adults and two children will be $135.
Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is supported by Experience Gold Coast and the Queensland Government, through Tourism and Events Queensland’s Major Events Program.