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One of the largest airshows in the Southern Hemisphere, Warbirds Over Wanaka (WoW), recently confirmed that there will be no modern military participation at the upcoming Easter airshow.
The announcement comes as a major disappointment for many keen aviation enthusiasts Down Under who were hoping to get a rare glimpse of the highly anticipated USAF F-22 demonstration team. For many frustrated Facebook commenters, the F-22 display was the main reason they purchased tickets.The biennial airshow typically draws tens of thousands of visitors across its four-day run, generating more than $40 million for the local economy. Tickets for both Saturday and Sunday had already sold out for the event prior to the announcement.
The New Zealand airshow also serves as a key marketplace for aircraft sales in the Asia-Pacific region. More than $14 million worth of fixed-wing and rotary aircraft have been sold at previous airshows. Stand prices range from $1,870 NZD ($1,071 USD) for a single aircraft, rising to $7,150 for five, making the event an exclusive marketing opportunity for manufacturers and sellers of both new and used aircraft.
The Royal New Zealand Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, United States Air Force, and the Republic of Singapore Air Force, all of which had previously committed to attending, will no longer be present at the event to wow spectators. Organizers say the decision was completely outside their control.
The reason for the withdrawals remains unclear. Some observers have suggested it is likely linked to the situation in the Middle East and rising global fuel prices, although organizers have not confirmed a cause.
Despite the setback, the event will still go ahead, with organizers working to finalize a new program. However, tickets will not be refunded.The RNZAF C-130J will not be present at this year's event
Started in 1988 by the late aviation entrepreneur Sir Tim Wallis, who pioneered live deer capture via helicopter, this show in New Zealand's picturesque South Island has become a global favorite. Even Buzz Aldrin made the trip in 2004. Among the 70 weird and wonderful aircraft still scheduled to appear on Sunday are the world's only Yak-7B fighter, the quirky AirTruk, a Mk. XI Spitfire, and the American Eagles Jet Team, among others."We are determined to have another very successful airshow as we know there are many local businesses and individuals who are relying on us to deliver once again", General Manager Ed Taylor told the Wanaka App.