Pacific Airshow 2026: 250,000 Spectators Flock to Gold Coast
The Pacific Airshow took to the skies above the Gold Coast, Australia, from August 15 to 17, 2026, drawing over 250,000 attendees to the Surfers Paradise beachfront. The three-day event featured historical aircraft, military fighter jets, and stunt planes, including the RAAF F-35A display and the Red Bull stunt team, set against the iconic Surfers Paradise skyline. Spectators, from dedicated aviation enthusiasts to toddlers, lined Cavill Avenue to watch the aerial performances. The Gold Coast mayor predicted the event would bring a $40 million economic benefit to the city. Despite changeable weather, the clouds parted for the final aerobatic displays. The event also included themed attendees, such as Sygourney Ball, and impersonators of Maverick and Rooster from Top Gun, who posed with local Kerry Armitage. The airshow is a significant cultural and economic event for the region, combining aviation heritage with contemporary entertainment.
Key facts
- The Pacific Airshow took place on the Gold Coast, Australia, from August 15 to 17, 2026.
- Over 250,000 people were expected to attend the three-day event.
- The airshow featured historical aircraft, military fighter jets, and stunt planes.
- The RAAF F-35A display was a highlight.
- The Red Bull stunt team performed.
- The Gold Coast mayor predicted a $40 million economic benefit.
- The event was held against the Surfers Paradise skyline.
- Weather was changeable but cleared for final displays.
Entities
Artists
- Sygourney Ball
- Kerry Armitage
Institutions
- Pacific Airshow
- RAAF
- Red Bull
Locations
- Gold Coast
- Australia
- Surfers Paradise
- Cavill Avenue