The might of Australian military aviation was on show at the 2022 Wings Over Illawarra Air Show, held at Shellharbour Airport, NSW, over the weekend of November 12-13.
A vast array of flying and static displays thrilled the crowd of more than 35,000 people who flocked to the Illawarra region to attend the breathtaking two-day event.
100 Squadron Commanding Officer Wing Commander Philip Beanland said participating in the Air Show gave Air Force an opportunity to engage with the community.
“There was a really good mix of aircraft, old and new, on display,” Wing Commander Beanland said.
“Showcasing to the public and notably the next generation provides awareness of what we do every day in the ADF.
“Who knows – some of the younger members of the crowd may one day become aviators of the future.”
From left, Joseph, Daniel, Tim and Brooklyn from the Edmund Rice College check out the DHC-4 Caribou aircraft.
Highlights of the air show included a high-speed aerial display from an F-35A Lightning II as well as the historic 100 Squadron aircraft which flew in from Point Cook and Temora Aviation Museums.
“The Air Force Roulettes once again proved to be a crowd favourite with a jaw dropping six-ship flying display,” Wing Commander Beanland said.
Exciting and cutting edge ground-based attractions which piqued air show patrons’ interest included:
- Air Force’s C-130J Hercules, Pilatus PC-21, Air Force Drone Racing Team and the Air Force Balloon
- Navy’s Airbus EC135 helicopter and unmanned aircraft systems
- Army’s Bushmaster protected mobility vehicle and the Army Drone Racing Team
There were also flight simulators, military working dog demonstrations and Air Force Band live performances.
Supporting Wings Over Illawarra provided not only Air Force, but the entire ADF, with the opportunity to showcase its capabilities and meet thousands of aviation enthusiasts.
The RAAF Roulettes Aerobatic Display Team sign autographs for the community.
