The southern hemisphere’s premier airshow and aerospace and defence expo is ready for takeoff.
The biannual Avalon Australian International Airshow returns to Geelong this week, showcasing military and civilian aircraft, aerobatic displays and the newest innovations in aviation technology.
With three-and-a-half trade days and three days of public displays, the airshow will transform Avalon into an aviation Mecca from Tuesday March 25 to Sunday March 30.
This year’s attractions include the Friday night flying demonstration Night Alight, performances by the Royal Australian Air Force’s F35A Lightning II and F/A-18F Super Hornet, Matt Hall Racing’s high performance aviation unit and fan favourites the military working dogs.
The 2023 edition of the event was a huge success, drawing more than 80,000 members of the public through the turnstiles from Friday to Saturday, but traffic jams created hours-long waits for some.
In response, the airshow announced it had revamped its transport and parking systems to improve the visitor experience this year, including a park-and-ride shuttle bus option.
Chief executive of organisers AMDA Foundation Justin Giddings said the “sheer scale” of the event meant it couldn’t go ahead without great support from the community.
“We are indebted to the Victorian state government and the City of Greater Geelong for their long-term support of this event, and the teamwork that makes it successful,” Mr Giddings said.
“With exhilarating flying displays, interactive experiences, and the chance to get up close and personal with aircraft on the ground, we look forward to welcoming visitors from across Australia and the world to one of the world’s great airshows.
“We are proud of the Avalon Australian International Airshow, and Geelong should be too.”
Matt Hewson
