Warbirds Over Wānaka International Airshow is expecting “top displays” from United States Air Force Demonstration teams at this year’s airshow. 

Both the F-16 fighter jet and C-17 demonstration teams from the air force will be taking part in the airshow, Warbirds has announced.

“The United States Air Force has been a major supporter of our airshow over the years,”  Warbirds Over Wānaka International Airshow general manager Ed Taylor said. 

“Their teams always put on top displays and their personnel on the ground are always great ambassadors for their country.”

Ed said the F-16 was an iconic Warbird “and not just because it can reach Mach 2 (2,000+ kph)”. 

“The aircraft first flew in 1974 and is still being manufactured today - 50 years later.  What a way to celebrate your 50th with a ‘fast and furious’ display at Wānaka.”

It is relatively small and light, giving it “amazing manoeuvrability – perfect for showing off in front of a big crowd,” he said.

“Not so small and fast but equally impressive is the huge C-17 Globemaster III which is set to fill the sky above Wānaka during the airshow.” 

The American participation backs up an impressive line-up of modern aircraft already confirmed by the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF).

Highlights will  include the New Zealand airshow debut for the new Poseidon P-8K maritime surveillance aircraft which has replaced the P-3K Orion and a farewell to the C-130H Hercules which is performing its last major airshow display before being retired.

The RNZAF is also bringing its Air Force Heritage Flight including the Spitfire, P-51 Mustang and Grumman Avenger, who will be flying with the modern Texan T-6C trainers which will also perform as the Black Falcons. 

Warbirds Over Wānaka International Airshow 2024 will take place over Easter weekend.

PHOTO: Supplied