In a major coup for the Lismore Aviation Expo on July 29, organisers have announced that a RAAF Hawk 127 will be performing a flying demonstration as well as being on static display at the annual event.
The Royal Australian Air Force Hawk 127 is the lead-in fighter plane that prepares Air Force pilots for flying F/A-18 Hornets and F/A-18F Super Hornets.
Graduates learn general flying, instrument flying, formation flying, night flying, navigation, air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons training in the Hawk 127.
Lismore City Council’s business development coordinator Danielle Hanigan said at the Lismore Aviation Expo people will have the rare opportunity to get a close-up look at the Hawk 127.
She said it was a major drawcard for the Lismore Aviation Expo and thanked the RAAF for agreeing to show off their aircraft.
‘Last year we were meant to have a flypast from a RAAF Globemaster, but when we had to reschedule the event due to poor weather, we missed this opportunity due to operational requirements,’ Ms Hanigan said.
‘To have the Hawk actually land in Lismore and to give local aviation enthusiasts the chance to see these aircraft in the flesh is really exciting. We are so thrilled and encourage everyone to come and explore this amazing aircraft.’
The Hawk 127 weapons and equipment systems allow for the carriage, aiming and release or firing of practice weapons, conventional and laser-guided bombs, Sidewinder missiles, and a 30mm cannon.
The aircraft stands at 4.1 metres high with a wingspan of 9.39m and has a Rolls Royce engine. Its top speed is an incredible 1207km/h.
The RAAF is also supporting the Lismore Aviation Expo by bringing their band to the event, which will roam around creating a fabulous musical backdrop.
The Lismore Aviation Expo is on Sunday, July 29 from 9am to 4pm at the Lismore Aviation Centre in Three Chain Road, South Lismore.
Entry: $5 /children under 16 free.
Please note: No parking on site except disability parking permit-holders.
Shuttle buses from 8.45am picking up at Oakes Oval, Lismore Lake and Lismore Airport terminal, every 15-20 minutes.
For more information, visit www.visitlismore.com.au.
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