The future of the Illawarra's premier aviation event is now secure, with a new name, new dates, and a new team at the helm. The airshow will return to the skies over Shellharbour in May 2026, now operating under the banner Wings Over Shellharbour.
New Leadership for a Beloved Event
The event's revival comes under the stewardship of Paul Bennet Airshows, a company led by one of Australia's most accomplished display pilots. Paul Bennet himself is one of the few pilots in the country authorised for surface-level aerobatics and boasts an impressive over 10,000 hours of display flying.
"We're absolutely thrilled to be continuing this incredible airshow," Bennet said. "There's nothing quite like seeing the joy and excitement it brings to the crowds."
From Limbo to Launch: Securing the Show's Future
The airshow's future was thrown into doubt in July 2025 when the previous operator, the AMDA Foundation, announced its withdrawal. This decision came less than eight months before the event was originally scheduled for March 2026, leaving the community and aviation enthusiasts in limbo.
The AMDA Foundation, which ran the show once as Airshows Downunder Shellharbour, stated it was stepping back to concentrate on broader strategic initiatives supporting the aviation sector. However, the foundation's Careers By AMDA program will remain a key component of the newly branded Wings Over Shellharbour.
"AMDA has always been committed to advancing Australia's aviation and aerospace industries," said AMDA Foundation chief executive Justin Giddings. "We're excited to support Wings Over Shellharbour through our Careers By AMDA initiative, helping inspire the next generation of aviation professionals."
Mark Your Calendars for May 2026
Aviation fans can now confidently mark their calendars for the show's triumphant return. Wings Over Shellharbour is officially scheduled to take place over three days, from Friday, May 15 to Sunday, May 17, 2026.
This announcement provides certainty for the region, ensuring the continuation of a major event that combines thrilling aerial displays with vital career inspiration for aspiring aviators. The Illawarra community can once again look forward to a weekend where the skies become a canvas of precision and power.
