4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Otago Daily Times
‘Best of the best': Star act returning to airshow
A Czechoslovakian-built Aero L-39 Albatros jet in action over Wanaka in 2013. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Warbirds Over Wanaka organisers have announced their first major international act for next year's Easter airshow will be the Eagles — no, not the rock band — the American Eagles jet aerobatic display team.
Event general manager Ed Taylor said the Eagles were one of the star acts of the 2024 airshow, and the four pilots were returning in 2026 to give another spectacular performance, flying their jets in formation just a metre apart, at 600kmh.
"These are four of the very best civilian jet aerobatic pilots in the United States, coming together as the American Eagles for Wanaka.
"Back home, they fly as part of the Patriots team, performing at airshows around the United States.
"They are the best of the best, and are promising they have an even more stunning display planned for next Easter."
He said the pilots would be flying Aero L-39 jets which would be provided by Fighter Jets NZ Ltd owner Craig Mossman, based in Tauranga.
"We can't wait to get our aircraft down to Wanaka again and to see them flown the way the American boys fly them."
Mr Taylor said the Eagles were just one of the world-class teams being lined up for Wanaka.
The 12-ship New Zealand Red Stars Yak team would again be on the flightline, along with the legendary Roaring 40's Harvard display team which traces its roots back to the very first Wanaka airshow in 1988.
He said more international acts would be announced over the coming months.
"Following the 2024 airshow, many people told us it was the best Wanaka airshow yet, and there was no way we could top it.
"Given the big acts still to be confirmed, we're confident we can do just that," he said.
