Brisbane Airport’s new runway was opened today with a celebration of Queensland’s rich aviation history.
Brisbane Airport’s new runway was opened today with a celebration of Queensland’s rich aviation history. Three vintage aircraft the first to land, following a breath-taking aerial acrobatics display above the airfield.
Virgin Australia, BNE’s home carrier, had the honor of the first historic departure, flying to Cairns in celebration of Brisbane’s deep connection with the regions and Queensland’s tourism industry.
Following an official ribbon cutting on the runway, invited VIP guests gathered airside with 150 Brisbane Airport Corporation staff and 10 local plane spotters, who won a place at the event in a lucky draw, to watch the first aircraft movements and sky show.
In a first for an Australian capital city airport, the air space above BNE was briefly closed to allow the aerobatics display by ‘Fighter Pilot Adventure Flights’, a Brisbane-based private aircraft collection and flight experience company specializing in warbird operations.
Flying at speeds of up to 500 kilometers per hour at an altitude of 100 meters the aerobatics display included a breath-taking series of linked maneuvers, V-formation flying, and a tail chase.
Harking back to Brisbane Airport’s historical past, the Great Nephew of pioneer Australian Aviator Bert Hinkler, Mitch Palm, joined the celebrations.
