Surfers Paradise airshow to launch on 18 August 2023

The event is being created by the team behind the Pacific Airshow at Huntington Beach, California, which attracts three million visitors.

Kevin Elliott, Code Four’s CEO, said he believed it would generate a similar economic benefit as its US equivalent — estimated at US$68 million in direct spending.

“Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is so much more than what happens in the air with something for everyone throughout the event precinct stretching for several kilometres along the esplanade,” said Elliott.

“From street vendors, STEM exhibitions, art, entertainment and more, you can expect the whole of Surfers Paradise, land, sea, and sky to be transformed into the world’s biggest stage.

“We are excited to be working closely with the Australian Defence Force, especially as the inaugural Pacific Airshow Gold Coast will be honouring and recognising Australian Vietnam Veterans’ Day on 18 August 2023, and marking the important date with a tribute to those who have served.”

The show is expected to draw in crowds both locally and globally, and will include both local and international aerobatic spectacles, with Red Bull Air Race world champion Matt Hall already signed on as the show’s first ambassador.

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While display acts for the inaugural event are still to be confirmed, the show will boast displays of both military and civilian aerobatics capabilities and emerging urban mobility technologies.

Launched in 2016, the original Pacific Airshow in California in 2021 included aerial displays by the US Navy Blue Angels, US Air Force Thunderbirds, Royal Air Force Red Arrows, and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds.

Major Events Gold Coast CEO Jan McCormick said on Thursday the event would be a “game changer” for the city.

“I’ve no doubt that now the 2023 dates are announced, the media and marketing exposure across Australia is sure to result in strong accommodation bookings giving our tourism sector a welcome boost through the traditionally quieter August period. Importantly, hosting this spectacular airshow well and truly cements our city’s reputation as a world-class events destination,” said McCormick.