Australian International Airshow

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Australian International Airshow
F-111-Fuel-Dump,-Avalon,-VIC-23.03.2007.jpg
RAAF F-111 at the 2007 Airshow performing a dump-and-burn, a procedure where the fuel is intentionally ignited using the plane's afterburner.
Genre Air show
DatesMarch
Frequency Biennial: Odd years
Venue Avalon Airport
Location(s) Victoria
Coordinates 38°02′03″S144°28′06″E / 38.0342°S 144.4683°E / -38.0342; 144.4683
CountryAustralia
Established1988;36 years ago (1988)
Most recent2023
Next event2025
ActivityAerobatic and static displays
Website https://www.airshow.com.au

The Australian International Airshow, also called the Avalon Airshow, is a large air show held biennially at Avalon Airport, between Melbourne and Geelong in Victoria.

Contents

The event has a strong focus on military aviation, featuring aircraft from the Royal Australian Air Force, United States Navy and the United States Air Force. Representatives from other air arms have also appeared at the airshow on many occasions, including aircraft from the Royal Air Force, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, Republic of Singapore Air Force and many others.

It has been said by air show organisers to be the largest air show in the southern hemisphere. [1]

The airshow has periodically attracted anti-war protests. [2] [3]

History

Inverted plane leaving a wall-of-fire in 2007 Avalon Airshow 2007 wall of fire.jpg
Inverted plane leaving a wall-of-fire in 2007

The first air display at Avalon was in 1957 when the head of the Port Melbourne Government Aircraft Factories Geoff J. Churcher OAM decided to put on a display for the employees. As the employees at the factory only ever saw individual parts of aircraft it was decided to mount a flying display at Avalon so the employees could see the final result of their work.

1988–1991: the first air shows

To celebrate the Australian Bicentenary in 1988, the first major airshow in Australia was held in Sydney at the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) air base at Richmond in New South Wales. It was organised by members of the Schofields Flying Club, which had been running small-scale air shows at the small strip at Schofields Airfield. The Bicentennial Airshow featured a vast array of international military types including the F-15 Eagle, Panavia Tornado F3, Sea Harrier, the Royal New Zealand Air Force aerobatic team "Kiwi Red", Lockheed C-5 Galaxy, BAE Systems Hawk and a flypast by a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress bomber.

In February 1991 a second air show was held at Richmond, to celebrate the RAAF's 70th Anniversary. This was the last air show run by the remnants of Schoe's, who provided the prime impetus to get the Aerospace Foundation of Australia up and running. The foundation was responsible for forming AirShows DownUnder.

With the success of those two New South Wales shows plans were laid for the Avalon airshow.

1992 – Moving to Avalon

C-47 Dakota A65-95 of the ARDU in 1992 ARDU Dak A65-95.JPG
C-47 Dakota A65-95 of the ARDU in 1992

In 1992, the Australian International Airshow was moved to Avalon Airport near Geelong. Held during October, the show coincided with the wettest spring in Victoria's history. [4] The show organisers nearly cancelled it due to the wet, but the rain stopped just before the opening day. The two public days of the 1992 show were attended by about 175,000 people. [4] There were 226 exhibitors from 12 countries. [4] The move to Avalon in 1992 was hoped to be the first of many locations, however the weather caused financial difficulties that resulted in the air show remaining at Avalon for many years.

Besides the weather, further problems presented themselves, including the absence of the MiG-29 and Sukhoi Su-27 promised by the Russians. [4] However, other aircraft were present, notably the enormous Antonov An-124 Ruslan and Ilyushin Il-86. Also on display were warbirds, and the Airbus A340, which had been in commercial service for only seven months. The show featured significant RAAF participation. [4]

1995

The 1995 show was the second edition to take place at Avalon. The date was moved from October to 21–26 March, taking advantage of finer weather during autumn. [4]

The show was largely stolen by the visiting Russian contingent of Anatoly Kvochur, his specially modified Su-27P "Flanker" and Ilyushin Il-78 "Midas" tanker aircraft. [5] They were supported by other Soviet/Russian aircraft such as the Ilyushin Il-76DMP, Il-96M and the Tupolev Tu-204. [5] Also present were the RAAF's General Dynamics F-111G "Aardvark", so were the BAE Systems Hawk, Dassault Alpha Jet, CASA/IPTN CN-235, and the Kaman Seasprite, which were running for Australian Defence Force orders. [5] Aerial in-flight refuelling was displayed as well as Kvochur's world-famous flying routine with the Flanker which involved the "Cobra", knife-edge and extremely low level passes. The final display on the Sunday show saw the Flanker cruise down the Avalon runway at approximately 15 feet (4.6 m) above ground level. The RAAF and USAF were reluctant to compete with the Flanker and so there was no solo F/A-18 Hornet aerobatic display. The USAF flew the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon with external drop tanks fitted which they said limited the aircraft to a "3g max" display. Kvochur won the award for best flying display this year.

1997

The 1997 Avalon air show was held between 18 and 23 February. In contrast to the 1992 show, which was the wettest spring in Victorian history, 1997 took place during the hottest February ever. [5] Attendance was 171,168 and a $63 million contribution to the Victorian economy. [6]

Aircraft present were the USAF F-16 Fighting Falcon, KC-135 Stratotanker and C-17 Globemaster III, a Canadian CP-140 Aurora, a United States Marine Corps Super Cobra, a special Airbus A320 in Sydney Olympics livery, and two Canadair CL-215 Scoopers. [7] The most notable aircraft was a Super Constellation restored by HARS in the US. [7] Another display was by the F-111 with its "dump and burn" during the Night Alight on Friday evening. [7]

1999

Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation CA-18 Mustang (VH-JUC) in No. 3 Squadron RAAF colours in 1999 Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation CA-18 Mustang (VH-JUC) in No. 3 Squadron RAAF (KH677) colours.jpg
Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation CA-18 Mustang (VH-JUC) in No. 3 Squadron RAAF colours in 1999

There were 472 exhibitors from 26 countries in 1999. It was opened by the-then Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett on 16 February 1999. [8] The USAF again had a heavy presence, contributing two F-16Cs, a KC-135R tanker, a C-5 Galaxy, and a B-52. [7] The latter was parked at the end of the runway, ready to take off at a moment's notice for deployment in Iraq. [7] The RAAF displayed its new Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules, even though it was yet to enter service. [7] Eurofighter sent a mock-up of its Typhoon, promoting the aircraft as prospective replacement for the RAAF's F/A-18 Hornet. [9] Business jets, warbirds and historic aircraft were featured heavily, among which were five North American P-51 Mustangs. [9]

Novelty acts included wing-walking as part of the performances under the name "Stars of Oshkosh". Bob Hoover returned to perform in his Aero Commander. [9]

2001

AH-64 Apache of the US Army in 2001 Boeing Apache attack helicopter at the 2001 Avalon Airshow.jpg
AH-64 Apache of the US Army in 2001

It was held on 13–18 February 2001, which celebrated Australia's 100 years of federation and 80 years of the Royal Australian Air Force. About 100 United States Air Force pilots took part in the air show in 2001. Planes included were a B-1 Lancer, two F-15 Eagles, two F-16 Fighting Falcons, a B-52 Stratofortress, a C-17 Globemaster III, a Hawker Siddeley Nimrod, two Tornado GR.1s, a Vickers VC10 tanker, two RAF Hercules, and a Eurocopter Tiger, among others. [9] The Bombardier CRJ700, Dash-8 (Q400) and Learjet 45 made their AIA debut, accompanied by a Cessna CJ2, Dassault Falcon 900EX and Cirrus SR20. [9]

This edition saw the last public display of the RAAF's Aermacchi MB-326 jet trainer before retirement. [9]

2003

A Mitsubishi Zero replica in 2003 Mitsubishi-zero-replica-l.jpg
A Mitsubishi Zero replica in 2003

In 2003, the official theme was "Celebrating the Centenary of Powered Flight", commemorating the first powered flight by the Wright brothers on 17 December 1903 at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. [9] There were 440 exhibitors from 30 countries. There were more than six hundred aircraft on the field. It included replicas from the early 20th century, such as a 1910 Hanriot replica and 1911 Curtiss Model D Pusher replica. There were also Tiger Moths, Sopwith Pup, Bleriot XI and a scale version of a Wright Flyer II and other similar aircraft. For jets it had a Canberra, MiG-15 [ failed verification ], Hawker Hunter, Gloster Meteor and Vampire [ failed verification ]. [9] A NH90 arrived in an Airbus Beluga, which was an attraction in itself. [9]

A Chinese military delegation was given a tour of the air show. The 2003 edition took place in the lead-up to the Iraq War which began the following month and appearances by a number of American aircraft scheduled to join in the show such as the Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk were cancelled, due to possible anti-war protests. There was a model of an F-35 Lightning II, made of wood and fibreglass. An anti-war protest did take place outside, and Gavan O'Connor, the local parliament member boycotted the airshow. [2]

2005

C-17 Globemaster III of the US Air Force in 2005 C-17 Globemaster III at Avalon 2005 1.jpg
C-17 Globemaster III of the US Air Force in 2005

The theme of the 2005 show, held from 15 to 20 March, was "The Shape of Things to Come". This edition experienced increased business activity, as there were more than 500 exhibitors from 22 countries and 11 major conferences. [10] The air show increased Geelong's economy by $15.6 million. [11]

It featured many planes ranging from ultralights to large military aircraft, such as the F/A-18 Hornet, F-15 Eagle, B-52 Stratofortress (a surprise flyover), F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark, P-51 Mustang, C-130J, Seahawk, Caribou, Orion and CAC Boomerang [ failed verification ]. [10] A specially painted RAAF F/A-18 Hornet was present was the show, commemorating 20 years of service with Australia

2007

F-111 of the RAAF performs a "dump and burn" in 2007 F111 Avalon Airshow 2007 1.jpg
F-111 of the RAAF performs a "dump and burn" in 2007

The theme of the 2007 air show, held between 20 and 25 March, was "Breaking the Barriers", as it was the 60th anniversary of the breaking of the sound barrier by Charles "Chuck" Yeager; Yeager himself was the guest of honour at the show, [12] [13] and a full-scale mockup of the Bell X-1 was specially constructed. [10] During the show, 611 companies from 20 countries exhibited their products. The total for featured aircraft during the show was 457, during which 182,769 visitors attended. [14] This edition injected A$120 million into the Victorian economy, creating 1,800 jobs. [15]

It was also the 60th year of the United States Air Force, which once again featured prominently at the event, sending the F-15 Eagles, F-16 Fighting Falcons, E-3 Sentry and a C-17 Globemaster III. [16] The F/A-18F Super Hornet display was made possible by United States Navy aircraft from VFA-102 off of the USS Kitty Hawk. Besides those from the USAF, other military aircraft featured included the F/A-18 Hornet, General Dynamics F-111, F/A-18F Super Hornet, BAe Hawk 127, C-27J Spartan and C-130 Hercules, along with military helicopters including the S-70 Black Hawk and Eurocopter Tiger. The RAAF's first C-17 Globemaster III transport was on display [12] and there was a USAF B-52 bomber flyover. The Roulettes, the RAAF's aerobatic display team, also took part in their Pilatus PC-9 aircraft. A large number of civil aircraft were on display, which included modern-day light and sports aircraft, along with jet airliners including the Airbus A320, Boeing 737 and Boeing 747. A large number of warbirds and older aircraft also took part, such as the P-51 Mustang, P-40 Kittyhawk, Douglas DC-3 and Lockheed Super Constellation.

The show also saw the appearance of three-time world aerobatic champion Yurgis Kairis, test pilot Ricardo Traven, who piloted the F/A-18, and American stunt pilot Jim LeRoy. [12] Jim would die on 28 July later in the year during a helicopter transit following a crash at the Vectren Dayton Air Show. Bob Carlton made his debut appearance in the Super Salto Jet Sailplane.

2009

Andy Thomas in 2009 Andy Thomas 2009 Australian International Airshow.jpg
Andy Thomas in 2009

The 2009 air show was held from 10 to 15 March. [17] Trade sessions ran from Tuesday until 2 pm Friday, after which it was opened for the public until Sunday. The theme of this edition was "Towards Tomorrow". Andy Thomas, an Australian-born astronaut, was the guest of honour; the edition also remembered the 40th anniversary of the first Moon landing. Andy grew up in Adelaide, while the American space programme was still in its infancy. [15] The edition would be the last featuring the F-111 Aardvark, as the RAAF retired the aircraft in December 2010, replaced by the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. Approximately 165,000 people turned out to the six-day-long event. [18]

US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet of VFA-122 in 2009 US Navy F-A-18 Super Hornet at Avalon Airshow in 2009.jpg
US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet of VFA-122 in 2009

Aircraft that visited the show were Qantas' Boeing 747 and Airbus A380, the latter of which was first delivered the previous year. V Australia, a new Brisbane-based competitor in the international market, contributed with its Boeing 777-300ER. [19] Also on display were the Lockheed C-5 Galaxy, C-17, B1-B Lancer, F-16 Fighting Falcon, F/A-18 Hornet, F/A-18F Super Hornet, F-111 Aardvark, and the KC-10 Extender.

The wall of fire display was not present this year, out of respect to the many people affected by the Victorian bushfires. Furthermore, the show would donate $250,000 to fund research into aviation technology aimed at bushfire management. [19] Much of the Sunday show was cancelled due to severe weather, with several tents and temporary structures blown away by strong winds and extensive damage to some visiting aircraft. In total, 562 part took in the show, with an attendance of 170,045 during the entire show. [20] Ticket sales were the same as 2007 despite the windy and rainy weather. [19] The 2009 show boosted the Victorian economy by $121 million.[ citation needed ] The following year, officials announced the Australian International Airshow would remain at Avalon until 2015.

2011

F-22 Raptor of the USAF on static display in 2011. A B-1B Lancer is in the background F-22 Raptor at the 2011 Avalon Airshow.jpg
F-22 Raptor of the USAF on static display in 2011. A B-1B Lancer is in the background
C-17 Globemaster III of the US Air Force in 2011. USAF C17 at Avalon Airshow.jpg
C-17 Globemaster III of the US Air Force in 2011.

The 2011 Australian International Airshow was the tenth edition to take place at Avalon. It celebrated the 90th anniversary of the Royal Australian Air Force and the centenary of the first passenger flight in Australia. [21] The show ran from 1 to 6 March and opened to the public on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. [22] The "Friday Night Alight" show featured, for the first time, a laser show and flare drops, during which military jets and gliders performed aerobatic displays. [23] More than 195,000 attended the event. [24]

There were about 100 aircraft, including bombers, fighters and surveillance aircraft present at this edition. The show saw the premiere of the most advanced stealth air superiority fighter, the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor. Two aircraft, based at Elmendorf Air Force Base, were on static display for the first time in Australia, . [25] [26] [27] They did not perform because the qualified display pilot was not present. [28] A highly detailed model of the still under development Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter was on static display beside a classic F/A-18 Hornet. Also present were a B-1B Lancer, KC-135, KC-10, F-16 Fighting Falcon, C-17 Globemaster III, MH-60R Sea Hawk, B-52 bomber, the RAAF's C130H and J Hercules, F/A-18 Classic Hornet and Super Hornets and Boeing 737 AEW&C "Wedgetail", a Royal Air Force's E-3 Sentry, as well as aircraft and flying performances from New Zealand, France, Italy and Singapore. [29] [30]

The RAAF Roulettes were also present with flying displays towards the end of the show. Helicopters were present from the Australian Army and Royal Australian Navy, including the new MRH-90, along with legacy Blackhawks, Sea King and Squirrel models. A Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit stealth bomber was scheduled to participate, but was not present. [31] Conversely, a restored Lockheed Constellation was present. A large contingency of executive jets were also on display, most notably the $54 million Bombardier Global Express XRS. [32]

2013

Lockheed Martin F-22A Raptor in 2013 130302-F-MQ656-280 (8526191000).jpg
Lockheed Martin F-22A Raptor in 2013
HARS (VH-PBZ) Consolidated PBY Catalina, in RAAF A24-362 livery, doing a flying display at the 2013 Avalon Airshow HARS (VH-PBZ) Consolidated PBY Catalina, in RAAF A24-362 livery, doing an flying display at the 2013 Avalon Airshow.jpg
HARS (VH-PBZ) Consolidated PBY Catalina, in RAAF A24-362 livery, doing a flying display at the 2013 Avalon Airshow

A major highlight of the 2013 Australian International Airshow at Avalon was the flying display by a United States Air Force Lockheed Martin F-22A Raptor. Almost 168,000 people attended the six-day event, held between 26 February and 3 March, with the first three days being taken up with the trade show and the public spectacle began with the 'Friday Night Alight' show on the Friday evening. More than 600 aircraft participated in Avalon 2013, either directly or indirectly.

Two F-22A Raptors from the 94th 'Hat in the Ring' Fighter Squadron arrived at Avalon direct from Japan, where they had been forward-deployed. The flying display, performed by the Air Combat Command Raptor Demonstration Team's Major Henry 'Schadow' Schantz, was the only display for 2013, due to the effects of sequestration on the US Air Force budget. Other US military aircraft attending Avalon 2013 included a Boeing B-52H Stratofortress from the 2nd Bomb Wing, two Lockheed Martin F-16C Fighting Falcons from the 35th Fighter Wing and a Boeing KC-135R Stratotanker from the 18th Wing on static display. A Boeing C-17A Globemaster III from the 15th Wing performed a regular flying display, as did an RAAF 36 Squadron C-17A.

The Royal Australian Air Force had a strong presence at Avalon 2013, including a four-ship display by the Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornets of No. 82 Wing. Examples of most RAAF aircraft were on static display, including the Boeing E-7A Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning & Control aircraft and Airbus KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport. Making their debut at an Australian airshow was the Japan Air Self Defence Force, (JASDF) with the brief appearance of a Boeing KC-767J tanker from 404 Hikotai/1 Yuso Kokutai during the trade days.

Other highlights included the popular Breitling Wingwalkers with their two Boeing PT-17 Stearman biplanes, although they were reduced to a single aircraft after one suffered an engine failure during the display on the trade days. Melissa Pemberton (Edge 540) and Skip Stewart (Pitts Special) combined with the pyrotechnics of Rich Gibson in the TinStix of Dynamite routine. Large corporate jets were prominent during the trade show, with the Airbus A319CJ, Embraer Lineage 1000 and Gulfstream 650 all making their debut at an Australian International Airshow.

2015

Australian Army (A38-017) Tiger ARH display in 2015 Australian Army (A38-017) Eurocopter Tiger ARH display at the 2015 Australian International Airshow (1).jpg
Australian Army (A38-017) Tiger ARH display in 2015

The 2015 Australian International Airshow was held at Avalon between 24 February and 1 March. The theme was 'A Centenary of Anzac 1915–2015, Heroes of the Sky.' [33] More than 600 firms were expected to attend the event. [34]

2015 marked the centenary of the formation of the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) and their landing at Gallipoli. 2015. The Main attractions present at the 2015 air show included the F/A-18, the B-52H, a new addition to the airshow: the HARS Lockheed P-2 as well as multiple future RAAF aircraft.

The Australian Army flew their MRH90 Taipan and Tiger ARH helicopters for the first time. The Republic of Singapore Air Force display team Black Knights performed a two-ship F-16 display routine. A large number of warbirds and other historical aircraft also participated in the event. [35]

Qantas showed off their newest Boeing 737 "Retro Roo" and a new aboriginal F/A-18 scheme was released. A JASDF KC-767J refueller made an appearance again during the trade days, leaving on the first full public day. [36] [37]

2017

The 2017 Australian International Airshow was held between 28 February and 5 March at Avalon. It was noteworthy for the first appearances of many new RAAF types, as well as a large number of US aircraft.

The 2017 edition featured the first Australian appearance of the RAAF's new Lockheed-Martin F-35 Lightning and the E/A-18 Growlers. It also featured new C-27J Spartan, P-8 Poseidon, and PC-21 RAAF aircraft. [38]

Fourteen US military aircraft attended the airshow, the largest number of US aircraft in the show's history. [39] 2017 marked the second appearance of the USAF's Lockheed F-22 Raptors, and also a return of the Rockwell B-1B Lancer, Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker and two General-Dynamics F-16s. A P-8 from the US Navy was also present.

Regular aircraft such as the Lockheed C-130, C-17 Globemaster III and the RAAF Roulettes were also present.

Other participating countries included the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) with a KC-135 Stratotanker, two McDonnell Douglas F-15s and a C-130. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force again sent a KC-767, and the Royal Air Force sent an Airbus A400M Atlas to participate. [40] In terms of attendance the 2017 edition of the airshow was the largest yet, with more than 210,000 people attending.

There was a small anti-war protest nearby. [3] [41]

2019

The 2019 Australian International Airshow was held from 26 February to 3 March.

2023

Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 Airshow was at first rescheduled to be held on 26–28 November, but in August 2021, with the pandemic continuing, the organisers decided to abandon it altogether. [42]

While the Airshow could not proceed in 2021, it ran from 28 February to 5 March 2023. [43]

See also

Footnotes

References
  1. ↑ "Airshow: Feel the Power". Airshow.net.au. Archived from the original on 6 April 2011. Retrieved 20 March 2011.
  2. 1 2 Airshow anti-war protest takes off February 19, 2003 Green Left Weekly Retrieved 6 March 2017
  3. 1 2 McLennan, Rob Peace protest targets airshow March 1, 2017 Archived 1 March 2017 at the Wayback Machine 93.9 Geelong Retrieved 6 March 2017
  4. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Wilson 2011 , p. 68
  5. 1 2 3 4 Wilson 2011 , p. 70
  6. ↑ "Australian International Airshow and Aerospace Expo 1997". Archived from the original on 28 September 2007. Retrieved 9 November 2005.
  7. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Wilson 2011 , p. 71
  8. ↑ "Airshow 99". Archived from the original on 6 July 2011. Retrieved 24 March 2009.
  9. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Wilson 2011 , p. 72
  10. 1 2 3 Wilson 2011 , p. 74
  11. ↑ "Brumby Announces Grant For Avalon Airport Upgrade" (Press release). Vic.gov.au. 22 September 2005. Archived from the original on 2 October 2008. Retrieved 20 March 2011.
  12. 1 2 3 "Thrills and skills at Avalon air show". The Australian. 16 March 2007. Retrieved 19 March 2011.
  13. ↑ Lannen, Danny (21 March 2007). "Right place, right time ... right stuff". Geelong Advertiser. Retrieved 20 March 2011.
  14. ↑ "Exposition: 2007 Show Highlights". Airshow.net.au. Retrieved 19 March 2011.
  15. 1 2 Pountney, Michelle (10 March 2009). "Australian International Airshow takes off, with Dr Andy Thomas as guest" . Retrieved 20 March 2011.
  16. ↑ "Air Force participates in Australian air show" (Press release). AF.mil. 22 March 2007. Retrieved 19 March 2011.
  17. ↑ "Airshow: Program". Airshow.net.au. Retrieved 19 March 2011.
  18. ↑ "MEDIA RELEASE" (PDF) (Press release). Airshow.net.au. Retrieved 22 March 2011.
  19. 1 2 3 Creedy, Steve (6 March 2009). "Avalon airshow keeps up appearances despite downturn". The Australian. Retrieved 20 March 2011.
  20. ↑ "Exposition: 2009 Show Highlights". Airshow.net.au. Archived from the original on 18 February 2011. Retrieved 19 March 2011.
  21. ↑ Hedge, Mike (2 March 2011). "RAAF to celebrate at airshow" . Retrieved 25 March 2011.[ permanent dead link ]
  22. ↑ "Airshow: Program". Airshow.net.au. Archived from the original on 21 August 2011. Retrieved 19 March 2011.
  23. ↑ "New look night show set for Avalon". Australianaviation.com.au. 23 February 2011. Retrieved 20 March 2011.
  24. ↑ "Crowd figures up for Avalon 2011". 14 April 2011. Retrieved 26 April 2011.
  25. ↑ Creedy, Steve (11 February 2011). "Elusive warbird F-22 Raptor makes its Australian debut". The Australian. Retrieved 20 March 2011.
  26. ↑ "Australian First – Stealth Fighters at Airshow" (PDF) (Press release). Airshow.net.au. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2 March 2011. Retrieved 22 March 2011.
  27. ↑ "Avalon Airshow kicks off in Australia, U.S. Air Force participates" (Press release). 1 March 2011. Archived from the original on 12 March 2012. Retrieved 19 May 2011.
  28. ↑ Lannen, Danny (2 March 2011). "Raptors roar at Avalon". Geelong Advertisor. Retrieved 19 March 2011.
  29. ↑ "Public Visitors: Aircraft on Display". Airshows.net.au. Archived from the original on 6 April 2011. Retrieved 20 March 2011.
  30. ↑ Lin, Linette (1 March 2011). "RSAF takes part in Australian Airshow". Straits Times. Retrieved 20 March 2011.
  31. ↑ Horton, Will (1 March 2011). "PICTURE: AVALON – F-22 premieres at Australian air show". Flight Global. Retrieved 19 March 2011.
  32. ↑ Heasley, Andrew (24 February 2011). "Airshow ready for take-off". The Age . Retrieved 19 March 2011.
  33. ↑ Avalon Airshow – Tribute to Heroes of the Sky 16 March 2015 Warbird News Retrieved 6 March 2017
  34. ↑ Pittaway, Nigel More than 600 Firms To Exhibit at Avalon Defense News Retrieved 6 March 2017
  35. ↑ REPORT: Australian International Airshow (Avalon) 2015 Retrieved 6 March 2017
  36. ↑ Nelowkin, Was 87-3602 Boeing 767J Japan Air Self Defense Force Jet Photos 28 February 2015 Retrieved 6 March 2017
  37. ↑ Photos from the 2015 Avalon International Airshow 28 February 2015 The Courier Retrieved 6 March 2017
  38. ↑ P-8A, PC-21 and C-27J make Avalon debuts March 1, 2017 Australian Aviation Retrieved 6 March 2017
  39. ↑ Jennings, Gareth Avalon 2017: US record attendance demonstrates continued commitment to Asia-Pacific theatre February 28, 2017 Jane's Defence Weekly Retrieved 5 March 2017
  40. ↑ Pittaway, Nigel British Air Force A400M airlifters prepped for tactical missions March 1, 2017 Defense News Retrieved 6 March 2017
  41. ↑ Avalon airshow 2017 in Melbourne, Victoria Archived 24 February 2020 at the Wayback Machine EPA.EU Retrieved 6 March 2017
  42. ↑ Zacher, Lui (10 August 2021). "Avalon Airshow cancelled". bay939. Retrieved 16 August 2021.
  43. ↑ "AVALON 2023 & AIRSHOW 2023 : Avalon Airport, Geelong, Victoria, Australia". www.airshow.com.au. Retrieved 18 February 2023.
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Avalon Airport is a domestic airport, located in Avalon in the City of Greater Geelong in Victoria, Australia. While located outside the Melbourne metropolitan area, it is the second busiest of the four airports serving the state capital in passenger traffic. It is located 15 km (9 mi) north-east of the Geelong CBD and 50 kilometres (31 mi) south-west of the Melbourne CBD. The airport is operated by Avalon Airport Australia Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of Linfox.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Farnborough International Airshow</span> UK airshow and arms trade exhibition

The Farnborough International Airshow is a trade exhibition for the aerospace and defence industries, where civilian and military aircraft are demonstrated to potential customers and investors in Farnborough, Hampshire. Since its first show in 1948, Farnborough has seen the debut of many famous aeroplanes, including the Vickers VC10, Concorde, the Eurofighter, the Airbus A380, and the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II. At the 1958 show, Hawker Hunters of the RAF's Black Arrows executed a 22-aircraft formation loop, setting a new world record.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Warbird</span> Vintage military aircraft operated by non military forces

A warbird is any vintage military aircraft now operated by civilian organizations and individuals, or in some instances, by historic arms of military forces, such as the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, the RAAF Museum Historic Flight, or the South African Air Force Museum Historic Flight.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Royal International Air Tattoo</span> Military air show in Gloucestershire, England

The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) is the world's largest military air show, held annually in July, usually at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, England in support of The Royal Air Force Charitable Trust. The show typically attracts a total of 150,000 to 200,000 spectators over the weekend.

Aero India is a biennial air show and aviation exhibition held in Bengaluru, India, at the Yelahanka Air Force Station. It is organised by the Defence Exhibition Organisation, Ministry of Defence.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Warbirds over Wanaka</span> Air show in New Zealand

Warbirds over Wanaka is a biennial air show in Wānaka, held on the Easter weekend of even-numbered years since 1988. It is held at Wānaka Airport, 10 km south-east of Wānaka, in the southern South Island of New Zealand. Initially conceived by New Zealand live deer recovery pioneer, Sir Tim Wallis, as a show for him to display his collection of World War II aircraft, the event has grown into a major institution. Roads are closed and traffic is detoured around the area during the weekend. Hotels, motels and backpackers around Wānaka are usually booked well in advance. Accommodation is impossible to find if one does not have a booking.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">No. 36 Squadron RAAF</span> Royal Australian Air Force transport squadron

No. 36 Squadron is a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) strategic transport squadron. It operates Boeing C-17 Globemaster III heavy airlifters from RAAF Base Amberley, Queensland. The squadron has seen active service flying transport aircraft during World War II, the Korean War, the Indonesia–Malaysia Konfrontasi, the Vietnam War, and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. It has also supported Australian humanitarian and peacekeeping operations around the world, including Somalia, Cambodia, East Timor and Indonesia.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">No. 33 Squadron RAAF</span> Royal Australian Air Force tanker/transport squadron

No. 33 Squadron is a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) strategic transport and air-to-air refuelling squadron. It operates Airbus KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transports from RAAF Base Amberley, Queensland. The squadron was formed in February 1942 for service during World War II, operating Short Empire flying boats and a variety of smaller aircraft. By 1944 it had completely re-equipped with Douglas C-47 Dakota transports, which it flew in New Guinea prior to disbanding in May 1946.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">No. 84 Wing RAAF</span> Military unit

No. 84 Wing is a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) transport wing. Coming under the control of Air Mobility Group (AMG), it is headquartered at RAAF Base Richmond, New South Wales. The wing comprises No. 35 Squadron, operating Aliena C-27J Spartan transport Aircraft; No. 37 Squadron, operating Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules medium transports; and a technical training unit, No. 285 Squadron.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Thunder over the Boardwalk</span> Annual airshow held in Atlantic City, United States

Thunder Over the Boardwalk is an annual airshow held over the Atlantic City boardwalk every summer. It has occurred since 2003 and is currently one of the largest airshows in North America. What sets it apart, aside from being a beach show, is the fact that it usually occurs on a Wednesday. It takes place along the beaches of Atlantic City, New Jersey, in front of the boardwalk, with the casinos in the background. Flybys and demonstrations as high as 15,000 feet (4,600 m) and as low as 50 feet (15 m) over the water in front of the Atlantic City skyline.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft</span>

The Royal Australian Air Force operates a number of specialised aircraft to transport the Monarch of Australia and other members of the Royal family, the Governor General of Australia, the Prime Minister of Australia, senior members of the Australian government and other dignitaries.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Cleveland National Air Show</span> Annual air show

The Cleveland National Air Show is an annual air show held on Labor Day weekend at Burke Lakefront Airport in Cleveland, Ohio. It was established in 1964 as an indirect successor to the National Air Races. The show includes stunt airplanes, modern fighters and alternates between the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds every other year. The show typically runs from 9:00 a.m. to around 4:30 p.m. EDT. The show usually starts with smaller acts, and the Blue Angels or Thunderbirds perform last. Another regular attraction is the NASA Glenn Research Center, which usually has an exhibit located near the back of the show. There is usually some type of heritage or legacy flight, sometimes both.

FlightPathTV is a New Zealand documentary television show about aviation. It was created by Malcolm Clement and Fletcher McKenzie and produced by Leading Edge Media. Filmed at locations around the world, FlightPathTV was produced in New Zealand.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">RAAF Base Amberley</span> Royal Australian Air Force base southwest of Ipswich, Queensland

RAAF Base Amberley is a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) military airbase located 8 km (5.0 mi) southwest of Ipswich, Queensland in Australia and 50 km (31 mi) southwest of Brisbane CBD. It is currently home to No. 1 Squadron, No. 6 Squadron, No. 33 Squadron, No. 35 Squadron and No. 36 Squadron. Amberley is also home to Army units making up the 9th Force Support Battalion. Located on 1,600 hectares, RAAF Amberley is the largest operational base in the RAAF, employing over 5,000 uniformed and civilian personnel. There are a variety of other formations on the base such as training colleges and maintenance areas. Amberley's largest squadron in terms of personnel is No. 382 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron RAAF (ECSS) providing both garrison and deployed combat support. Amberley was one of only two airfields in Australia that were listed as a Transoceanic Abort (TOA) landing site for the Space Shuttle. Amberley is currently undergoing a A$64 million dollar re-development program. The RAAF has plans to have Amberley operating as its "superbase" with flights of F/A-18F Super Hornets, KC-30A, C-17 Globemaster and the C-27J Spartan.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet in Australian service</span>

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) operated McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet fighter aircraft between 1984 and 2021. The Australian Government purchased 75 A and B variants of the F/A-18 in 1981 to replace the RAAF's Dassault Mirage III fighters. The Hornets entered service with the RAAF between 1984 and 1990. Four Hornets were destroyed in flying accidents during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Boeing C-17 Globemaster III in Australian service</span> History of the C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft used by Australia

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) operates eight Boeing C-17 Globemaster III large transport aircraft. Four C-17s were ordered in mid-2006 to improve the ability of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to operate outside Australia and its region. The aircraft entered service between November 2006 and January 2008, the second pair being delivered ahead of schedule. Two more Globemasters were ordered in 2011, the sixth being delivered to the RAAF in November 2012. Another two C-17s were ordered in October 2014, with the final aircraft being delivered in November 2015. The Globemasters are built to the same specifications as those operated by the United States Air Force (USAF), and the Australian aircraft are maintained through an international contract with Boeing.

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