Delta COVID-19 variant grounds 2021 Avalon Airshow

August 10, 2021 BY James Taylor

Held every two years at Avalon Airport, the Australian International Airshow attracts thousands of visitors to the Geelong region. Photo: JAMES TAYLOR

THIS year’s Australian International Airshow has been grounded, with organisers confirming today (Tuesday, August 10) the cancellation of the event scheduled for November 30-December 5 at Avalon Airport.

AMDA Foundation runs the airshow, and chief executive Ian Honnery said delivering such a highly complex, hallmark event in the “challenging circumstances” of the Delta variant of COVID-19 would involve risks of uncertainty for attendees, participants, industry and the Australian public.

“Therefore, in order to minimise uncertainty and disruption to attendees and participants, the difficult decision has been taken now that AIRSHOW 2021 will not go ahead.

“It is deeply disappointing for the AMDA Foundation team, our stakeholders, exhibitors, participants and patrons that this signature industry trade show and public entertainment spectacular will not proceed. But public health and safety must be paramount and responsible levels of certainty must be achieved for all involved in or attending such a complex and multi-faceted major event.”

The biennial Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition at Avalon is a key platform for the development of Australian aerospace and defence industry and for the promotion of civil and defence aviation.

Staged with major participation from the Royal Australian Air Force and substantial support from the Victorian Government, it is one of the largest events of its kind internationally, attracting exhibitors, participants and visitors from around the world.

AMDA Foundation is now embarking on planning and preparation for the next biennial airshow at Avalon, which will be held from February 28 to March 5, 2023.

“With the expected transition to post-COVID normalcy, AIRSHOW 2023 will return to international prominence as one of the world’s great air shows,” Mr Honnery said.

“Showcasing the colour, spectacle and excitement of aviation, and the industrial and technological potential of aerospace, defence and space as national strategic capabilities, AIRSHOW 2023 will again take Australia to the world by bringing the world to Australia.

“Neither the sky, nor space, will be the limit at AIRSHOW 2023!”