• Two USAF F-22 Raptors have been placed on the display roster for Pacific Airshow Gold Coast this year. (Steve Hitchen)
    Two USAF F-22 Raptors have been placed on the display roster for Pacific Airshow Gold Coast this year. (Steve Hitchen)
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Pacific Airshow Gold Coast (PAGC) today released the second tranche of aerial displays scheduled for this year's air show.

The nine new displays announced today are in addition to the first line-up revealed last month.

PAGC is held along the shoreline at Broadbeach, QLD, with the flying displays remaining over water. Joining the roster for this year are:

  • RAAF F/A-18F Super Hornets
  • USAF F-22 Raptors
  • USN P-8 Poseidon
  • RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team
  • ADF Red Berets Parachute Display Team
  • RAAF C-17 Globemaster or C-27 Spartan
  • RAAF 100 SQN English Electric Canberra
  • RAAF 100 SQN Spitfire
  • RAAF 100 SQN A-37 Dragonfly

PAGC Airshow Director Kevin Elliott was most enthusiastic about the headlining USAF Raptors,

“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 Elliott.

“The stealthy F-22 Raptor is one of the most powerful, manoeuvrable and all-round badass fifth 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!"

Elliott attributed the presence of three separate defence forces to a spirit of co-operation that has been bolstered politically in the past few years,

“This year’s Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is a testament to the strength and unity of the AUKUS partnership," he said. "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 co-operation.

“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.”

Queensland Minister for Tourism and Sport, Michael Healy said he was delighted that PAGC was back for 2024.

"This year’s event is poised to drive significant visitation to the Gold Coast, after last year’s debut event attracted almost 170,000 spectators, showcasing the beauty and excitement of our region to the world," he said.

"The incredible line-up of performers, including the RAAF Super Hornet and the US Air Force F-22 Raptors, will captivate audiences and elevate our profile as a premier destination for spectacular events. We are proud to support this unique showcase that promises to leave a lasting impression on all who attend."

PAGC has pointed out that all scheduled flying displays are subject to aircraft availability on the day.

PAGC is scheduled for the sea front at Surfers Paradise in QLD on 16-18 August this year. More information is on the PAGC website.

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