Organisers expect to witness between 50,000 and 100,000 people when the Air Force Newcastle Williamtown Air Show 2023 takes flight.
The aerial extravaganza, to be staged in the Hunter for the first time since 2010, will soar to great heights on the weekend of 18 and 19 November in both Newcastle and at the RAAF Base Williamtown.
Head of Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) air shows Air Commodore Micka Gray admitted the event’s return was long overdue.
“RAAF Base Williamtown has a lengthy association with the Newcastle and Port Stephens communities,” he said.
“It’s been a part of the landscape since opening in 1941, at the time providing protection for the Hunter region’s strategic port and steel manufacturing facilities during World War II.
“The Air Force is proud to work with City of Newcastle (CN) and Port Stephens Council to showcase the people and military capabilities… and to extend our sincere gratitude to the community for its support.
“The flying displays in Newcastle, and the open day at the base, aim not only to strengthen our relationship with our neighbours but offer insight into the vital role the Australian Defence Force (ADF) plays in ensuring the security of our nation.
“It’ll be an event not to miss.”
Led by CN, the free community component on Saturday 18 November will include morning and afternoon flying displays by Air Force aircraft over Newcastle’s beaches and rivers.
On Sunday 19 November, RAAF Base Williamtown is scheduled to open its gates for a ticketed non-flying Open Day featuring static ground demonstrations and a range of military equipment from across the ADF.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the Air Show was another example of how the city had transformed as one of Australia’s prime major event destinations.
“We’re proud to partner with the RAAF,” she stated.
“Council will help create a festival atmosphere, with family-friendly viewing areas at Foreshore Park and Stockton.”
Tickets for Sunday’s Open Day at RAAF Base Williamtown will be available for purchase from late September.
There is no ticket requirement for the flying displays in Newcastle on the Saturday.
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