The day aviation fans have been waiting for has finally arrived, with the Pacific Airshow set to hit the skies of Surfers Paradise today!
Following days of torrential rain, the wet weather has finally cleared into beautiful blue skies just in time for one of the Gold Coast’s most anticipated events of the year.
Tens of thousands of people are expected to line the foreshore for the three-day spectacular following the huge success of last year’s inaugural event which drew crowds of close to 300,000.
We’re expected to see some of the world’s most powerful fighter jets soar through the skies of the city over the weekend, with epic aerobatic demonstrations by the world’s finest aviators.
In a treat for those heading along, Pacific Airshow Director Kevin Elliott is promising an even bigger thrill for Gold Coasters this year.
“It’s just an incredible, well-rounded show this year, frankly it’s better than I thought it would be in its second year,” Elliott admitted.
Gold Coasters are being reminded there will be a number of road closures in place across the three days of action, as well as water exclusion zones and restricted airspace.
“The Pacific Airshow will operate using restricted airspace approved by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA),” Queensland Police said.
“This restricted airspace will encompass a five nautical mile area over Surfers Paradise”.
There will also be a declared enforceable Water Exclusion Zone in the Coral Sea opposite Cavill Mall, which stretches from Clifford Street through to the Macintosh Island Park at Narrowneck.
No water activities will be allowed in the exclusion zone including swimming, surfing and marine vessels.
Motorists are also being urged to avoid traveling along the Esplanade in Surfers Paradise due to diversions that will be in place.
During the event, from Friday, August 16 to Sunday, August 18, a full road closure will occur on The Esplanade from the Soul building roundabout to Clifford Street.
“Police have been working with emergency services, the City of Gold Coast and the Pacific Airshow to ensure the event is conducted safely and with minimum disruption,” Senior Sergeant Des Hearn said.
“Approximately 100 officers will be policing the 3-day event to minimise disruption to local residents and businesses as much as possible”.
Those heading to the show are being reminded free public transport is included with all tickets.
