Warbirds Over Wanaka has confirmed the airshow is all go for next weekend with a number of the star aircraft already arriving in Wanaka.

This comes as the Royal New Zealand Air Force, along with visiting military, have announced they are pulling out of the airshow.   This decision is due to circumstances completely out of the control of airshow organisers.

Warbirds Over Wanaka General Manager Ed Taylor says having the military withdraw, particularly the US Air Force F-22 Raptor team, is very disappointing but it is for obvious and genuine reasons.

“We never guarantee any aircraft will be at the airshow as there are many reasons they may have to pull out – especially the military which may be required elsewhere at short notice as has been the case in the past.”

“Another aircraft which won’t be on the flightline is the DC-3 Spirit of Douglas which has unfortunately suffered a mechanical problem which can’t be fixed in time to have her here at Wanaka.”

“The great thing is we still have some amazing aircraft coming and will be delivering a full programme. The beautiful Mk. XI Spitfire arrived in Wanaka today from the UK and work has started on putting that together.  We have the stunning American Eagles jet display team and the debut of the Southern Force Pitts Special Aerobatic display team and so much more,” says Ed.

A number of other display aircraft are due to arrive in Wanaka over the weekend with more arriving throughout the week.

“This is going to be a huge airshow with up to 100 display aircraft and around 70 of them flying. We have sold out Saturday and Sunday although there are still tickets available for the Friday.  Plus we have a record 700 campervans up on the Criffel terrace above the airfield” says Ed.

The airshow is the biggest event in the Central Otago region and pumps more than $40million into the regional economy every second year.  “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,” says Ed.

Ed has also confirmed that the free community lakefront event on the Good Friday afternoon will still be going ahead from 5pm.