Australian Airshows 2026: Your Guide to Aviation Events Down Under

F-22 Raptor at RAAF Base Darwin Pitch Black 2024 — International participants like the U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor join Australian airshows, as seen at Exercise Pitch Black 2024. Photo: DVIDS/U.S. Air Force (Public Domain)

Australia’s 2026 airshow calendar offers diverse experiences across the continent, from intimate warbird gatherings to major regional events that draw aviation enthusiasts from throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

While the massive Avalon International Airshow runs on odd-year cycles (returning in 2027), 2026 delivers excellent alternatives that showcase Australian aviation heritage and military capabilities.

Note on Avalon: The Australian International Airshow at Avalon is a biennial event held in odd years. The next Avalon will be March 2027. This guide covers 2026 alternatives.

Major 2026 Events

Wings Over Shellharbour (May 15-17, 2026)

The newly rebranded Illawarra airshow launches its new era under Paul Bennet Airshows management. Located at Shellharbour Airport south of Sydney, this three-day event promises world-class aerobatics alongside RAAF demonstrations and warbird displays.

Paul Bennet Airshows brings extensive experience producing aviation events throughout Australia. Their involvement signals professional production values and performer rosters that will establish Wings Over Shellharbour as a major fixture on the Australian calendar.

Location: Shellharbour Airport, NSW
Website: paulbennetairshows.com.au

Military jet demonstration team in formation — Australian airshows feature stunning aerobatic performances from international military and civilian teams. Photo: DVIDS/U.S. Air Force (Public Domain)

Warbirds Downunder, Temora (2026)

The Temora Aviation Museum hosts periodic warbird gatherings that draw aircraft and enthusiasts from across Australia. Temora’s collection—including multiple Spitfires, a Boomerang, and various other WWII types—forms the core of events that celebrate Australian aviation heritage.

The intimate setting at Temora’s regional airport allows close access to aircraft and crews unavailable at larger venues. For warbird enthusiasts, Temora represents essential pilgrimage.

Location: Temora Airport, NSW
Website: aviationmuseum.com.au

ANZAC Week Airshow, Sale (2026)

Commemorating Australia’s military heritage, the ANZAC Week Airshow at West Sale Airport in Gippsland, Victoria combines aviation displays with historical reflection. The Paul Bennet Airshows team delivers aerobatic and warbird performances within a context of remembrance.

Location: West Sale Airport, Victoria

Barrington Coast Airshow (November 7, 2026)

Returning to Taree Regional Airport in New South Wales, the Barrington Coast Airshow combines aviation thrills with festival atmosphere. The single-day format delivers concentrated entertainment accessible to regional audiences.

Location: Taree Regional Airport, NSW

Heritage flight formation with warbird and modern jets — Australian warbird events showcase flyable WWII aircraft alongside modern military aviation. Photo: DVIDS/U.S. Air Force (Public Domain)

What to Expect at Australian Airshows

RAAF Participation

Royal Australian Air Force demonstrations vary by event, but expect F/A-18 Hornet displays at major shows while the type remains in service. The RAAF Roulettes aerobatic team—flying PC-21 turboprop trainers—provide precision formation flying with distinctly Australian character.

Civilian Aerobatics

Australian aerobatic performers rank among the world’s best. Paul Bennet himself holds multiple Australian aerobatic championships, and his team’s presence at events guarantees world-class flying entertainment.

Warbird Heritage

Australia maintains impressive warbird collections despite distance from WWII production centers. Spitfires, Mustangs, Kittyhawks, and uniquely Australian types like the Boomerang and Wirraway appear at events throughout the country.

Planning Your Visit

Distances Matter

Australia’s scale challenges visitors accustomed to European or North American geography. Events that appear close on maps may require significant driving. Plan itineraries realistically and consider domestic flights for distant events.

Weather Considerations

Australian seasons are reversed from the Northern Hemisphere. May events occur in autumn; November brings late spring. Conditions vary dramatically by region—research specific venue climates before traveling.

Looking Ahead to Avalon 2027

For visitors planning major trips to Australian aviation events, Avalon 2027 (March) represents the premier opportunity. The biennial Australian International Airshow at Avalon Airport near Geelong draws international military participation and industry presence unmatched elsewhere in the Southern Hemisphere.

Pro Tip: Combine airshow attendance with broader Australian travel. The country’s aviation events distribute across regions that offer distinct tourism experiences—coastal NSW, Victoria wine country, outback adventures.

Why Australian Airshows Matter

Australia’s aviation community maintains enthusiasm and heritage despite geographic isolation that limits international participation. The events that emerge from this environment reflect genuine passion rather than commercial calculation.

For international visitors, Australian airshows offer familiar aviation spectacle within unfamiliar landscapes and culture. The combination creates memories distinct from Northern Hemisphere events.

The 2026 Australian airshow season offers excellent opportunities despite Avalon’s absence. Plan around Wings Over Shellharbour or Temora for the most comprehensive experiences.