Celebrate the final flights of the F/A-18 Classic Hornets in style!

A fan-favourite fighter says goodbye. The F/A -18 Hornets have begun their final flights and are expected to show off their skills at Wings Over Illawarra on the 27th and 28th of November 2021!

The air show is back on for the first time since being cancelled in 2020, due to COVID-19, and this year there is expected to be more than just excitement in the air.

A fantastic farewell from the F/A-18 Hornets is expected to take place over the weekend, with both group displays and single handling displays on the cards from the Hornets at the event, weather permitting.

We’re hoping for a great display from Classic Hornets at the event

Starting off the flying program, 11:00 am Saturday is slated to be your first opportunity to see the F/A-18 Classic Hornet in flight! Kicking off the flying program with the first handling display, be ready for anything as this fighter jet renowned for its handling, speed, and agility takes to the skies.

A F/A-18 Classic Hornet is expected to kick off proceedings at 11:00 Saturday

For the rest of the day, you'll have time to check out the great range of other aircraft on display both on the ground and in the air. Check out the F-35 Lightning with its first official aerobatic display at 12:55 pm and get a good look at the next-generation fighter jet. If that isn't enough discover the static display of a F/A-18 Classic Hornet that’s expected to be on the ground.

Left: A four-ship display is planned. Right: Fans will also be able to check out a static display. 

Some good news for those of us who are not early risers, the Hornets will not only open but also close the show on Saturday. The Hornets will perform a four-ship formation and simulated airfield attack display, followed up by a handling display from the sensational F/A-18 Classic Hornet from 75 Sqn Magpie, so even if you miss the morning, you won't miss out.  

And don’t panic if you don’t make it Saturday, because these fantastic jets will be there all weekend with the same scheduled again on Sunday! 

No. 75 Squadron F/A-18A Hornet A21-018 was given a fantastic commemorative Magpie livery. 

With an amazing six expected opportunities to see these incredible jets in action, let’s hope the weather holds out for us to farewell this magnificent aircraft in style. Check out the full program here for all the flying events. 

Can’t make it to Wings Over Illawarra and want a way to keep these incredible aircraft with you, even after they leave Australian skies? Discover our Hornet range and explore a fantastic selection of fantastic products to get your piece of the F/A-18 Classic Hornets.