The Pacific Airshow Gold Coast will return from 14 to 16 August, featuring a mix of military and civilian aerial displays. Following the cancellation of last year’s air show due to Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the City of Gold Coast has undertaken beach recovery works to prepare for the 2026 programme.
Organisers have announced several new additions alongside returning performers. The Jeff Boerbon Yak-110, an aircraft constructed from two Yak-55 fuselages joined with a central jet engine, will feature in the line-up. Gravity Industries Jet Suits will also conduct a human flight demonstration over the beach.
Military assets participation includes the United States Air Force Wings of Blue Parachute Team and the United States Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor. The Royal Australian Air Force aircraft roster will be announced later this year with the second announcement flying program.
We expect the second announcement will likely be influenced by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, aircraft availability, and regional economic factors such as aviation fuel costs and availability.
Civilian aerobatic pilots scheduled to perform include returning Red Bull Air Race world champion Matt Hall, Emma McDonald in an EA-300, and Greg Colyer flying the T-33, noted as the only aircraft of its type in Australia. The programme also includes demonstrations by the Queensland Fire Department and Gold Coast Skydive.
Pacific Airshow CEO and Director Kevin Elliott stated, “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,”.
To supplement the aerial displays, the event introduces a tiered premium hospitality programme featuring a Beach Club, Garden Bar, and Private Cabanas. [Information missing on ticket pricing for these hospitality packages].
The 2024 airshow attracted nearly 300,000 attendees and provided an estimated $33 million benefit to the local economy. Mayor Tom Tate noted the city’s efforts to restore the beaches, adding, “We are renowned as Australia’s favourite holiday destination and this event takes our reputation to the next level,’’.
2026 Pacific Airshow Lineup – So Far
- Jeff Boerbon Yak-110
- Gravity Industries Jet Suits
- United States Air Force Wings of Blue Parachute Team
- United States Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey
- Queensland Fire Department Air Attack Demo
- Gold Coast Skydive
- Matt Hall
- Greg Colyer T-33
- Emma McDonald (EA-300)
- Screaming Diamonds
Now you have the initial performer lineup Stay tuned for the second announcement which will see the announcement of any Australian Military performers.
