Gold Coast set to see new airshow in 2023

The official dates for the airshow will be announced in August 2022, one year ahead of the inaugural show.

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.

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

The three-day affair will involve numerous aerial displays, along with food and market stalls, entertainment and hospitality programs, with VIP parties and meet-and-greets, according to its organisers.

Pacific Airshow Gold Coast will be run by Code Four, the Los Angeles-based company that launched the original Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach, California in 2016.

By 2021, three million visitors attended the California show, which has included aerial displays by the US Navy Blue Angels, US Air Force Thunderbirds, Royal Air Force Red Arrows and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds.

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“There has never been an air event of this scale staged anywhere in Australia. That’s why the Gold Coast is famous for fun – in the air and on the ground,’’ said Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate.

“This event underscores our commitment to attracting the very best in global entertainment for our residents, visitors and businesses.”

Code Four CEO Kevin Elliott said Pacific Airshow Gold Coast would be a spectacle like no other.

“This will be an annual event that will feature the finest aerobatic teams and performers from around the globe as well as inspiring educational STEM activities, music, entertainment and much more,” he said.

“The economic impact of this event will be tremendous and well-timed given Gold Coast’s recovery from COVID and should reinforce that the destination is open for business. I would expect to see a major increase in theme park attendance on airshow weekend, as an example,” said Elliott.

Major Events Gold Coast CEO Jan McCormick said, “This exciting five-year partnership well and truly cements our city’s reputation as a world-class events destination that has the capacity to host the biggest shows on the planet.

“The economic impact of hosting an event of this size is also substantial and will deliver a significant boost not just for businesses in Surfers Paradise but for hotels, restaurants, retail, and the event industry supply chain right across the city and the greater Southeast Queensland region.”