The Australian International Airshow and Defence Exposition, also known as the Avalon Airshow, kicks off today with trade days on 26–28 February then public visitor days on 1–3 March.
Avalon is the most significant aviation event in the southern hemisphere and takes place every second year. The event has a strong focus on military aviation, featuring aircraft from the Royal Australian Air Force, United States Navy and the United States Air Force.
As well as the latest and most capable military aircraft, there will be historic, sports and aerobatic flying displays. In 2017, more than 630 aircraft (from airliners, fast jets, helicopters, maritime patrol aircraft and business jets to recreational and sporting aircraft, antiques, warbirds, ultralights and gliders) participated in the show—either in the air or on the ground.
Since 2017, there has been a drone showcase dedicated to the remotely piloted aircraft industry. This year, DroneZone DownUnder runs from 1–3 March and will attract professional business users, commercial drone pilots, fire and emergency responders, real estate photographers, film crews, farmers, security organisations, mining and resource operators, and drone enthusiasts. CASA will have drone experts there so register and come along and have all your questions answered.
If you are attending Avalon 2019, pop by the CASA stand which is located in Hall 1 and pick up a CASA showbag. On Friday 1 March at 10 am, the newly published second edition of Human Factors for Pilots will be launched by Richard de Crespigny, captain of QF32.
Enjoy the commercial rip off! Been there done that, never agan!