6 May 2026
Sydney's closest major airshow returns: world-class flying displays land on the NSW South Coast
Three Spitfires soaring over the NSW coastline, a motorcycle backflipping over an aircraft, and a Piper Cub landing on the back of a moving truck - Wings Over Shellharbour returns to the NSW South Coast on 16-17 May 2026 with a flying program designed to draw weekend visitors from across the state to Australia’s largest regional airshow.
Held at Shellharbour Airport in the Illawarra region, the event is the only major airshow within easy reach of Sydney and Canberra and is expected to attract more than 15,000 visitors across the weekend.
The 2026 program also features the world-renowned Sky Aces Formation Team, Australia’s top aerobatic pilot Paul Bennet performing in his Wolf Pitts Pro, the Air Force Roulettes, and the Royal Australian Navy.
“There will be three spitfires performing which is really exciting and highly unusual, including a Supermarine Spitfire Mk. IX making its debut appearance, which is the only two seat Spitfire in the Southern Hemisphere,” said Paul Bennet, Founder of Paul Bennet Airshows that’s now managing Wings Over Shellharbour.
“The world’s only airworthy F4U-1D Corsair will also take to the skies over Shellharbour for the first time - one of the most dramatic-looking WWII fighters ever built, which will be another major drawcard for aviation enthusiasts.”
“My Wolf Pitts Pro display will kick off with a drag race against a supercar and finish with flying knife-edge along the runway as an FMX rider backflips over the top of the aircraft. Later in the day, I'll jump into a Piper Cub and land it on the back of a moving truck - neither of these stunts have ever been attempted at this airshow."”
"Beyond the flying, the ground festival has plenty to see - the RAAF Hot Air Balloon, classic and military vehicle displays, market stalls, food vendors, heaps of carnival rides, live entertainment, helicopters joy flights, and more.”
The HARS Aviation Museum will also open its doors with more than 16 static aircraft on display - including the Lockheed Super Constellation "Connie", the only operational example of this iconic 1950s airliner - offering visitors cockpit photo opportunities and tours inside the aircraft for a small donation to the museum.
A free Careers Day for secondary school students will be held on Friday 15 May, delivered in partnership with the AMDA Foundation’s Careers by AMDA initiative, exposing young people to aviation, defence, and STEM career pathways.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said: “I’m delighted to see Wings Over Shellharbour returning to the South Coast. This is one of the most exhilarating regional events on the NSW major events calendar, with spectacular aerial shows set against the backdrop of the beautiful Illawarra escarpment. We are proud to back major events in our regions that drive visitation and support local businesses and jobs that rely on our visitor economy. Wings Over Shellharbour does this by providing a weekend of fun and exciting experiences in one of our state’s most stunning locations for people of all ages from across the nation.”
For tickets and more information visit - https://wingsovershellharbour.com.au/
Wings Over Shellharbour is proudly supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and events agency, Destination NSW.
About Paul Bennet Airshows
Paul Bennet Airshows are leaders in the aviation industry, performing at airshows across Australia and around the world. Founded by award-winning aerobatic champion Paul Bennet, the team operates a fleet of 24 aircraft, including the world-renowned Wolf Pitts Pro and Wolf Pitts 360, some of the most powerful aerobatic machines ever built.
https://paulbennetairshows.com.au/
ENDS
Media contact:
Amna Yang, Campaign Manager Amna@inthemediapr.com.au | 0406 156 767