Next week's Australian International Air Show 2009 will be the last chance for aviation enthusiasts to see the Royal Australian Air Force's General Dynamics F-111s and Caribous before they are retired.
In particular, F-111s are likely to perform the famous "dump and burn" routine. This involves the F-111 pilot dumping fuel while engaging the afterburner, resulting in a fiery tail (see video below of the performance at the 2000 Sydney Olympics). According to internet reports (which means that it has to be true!), this was probably first done due to pilot error. When the aircraft did not explode, and after reports from observers, the RAAF worked this into its air displays.
Also at the show for the last time will be the RAAF's de Havilland DHC-4 Caribou tactical light transport aircraft (see video below). These will be retired this year instead of by 2013 due to serviceability issues involving corrosion, fatigue, obsolescence and asbestos components. The Caribou has been in RAAF service since 1964. Five Beechcraft King Air 300s will be leased to replace the aircraft as they are progressively retired.
The Australian Defence Force's air power will be on full display next week, with over 50 aircraft from all three services present at the show. "The ADF's flying and ground displays at Avalon will aim to inspire the next generation of air crew and ground support teams. Defence Force Recruiting will have a significant presence," says Australia's Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Mark Binskin.
In particular, F-111s are likely to perform the famous "dump and burn" routine. This involves the F-111 pilot dumping fuel while engaging the afterburner, resulting in a fiery tail (see video below of the performance at the 2000 Sydney Olympics). According to internet reports (which means that it has to be true!), this was probably first done due to pilot error. When the aircraft did not explode, and after reports from observers, the RAAF worked this into its air displays.
Also at the show for the last time will be the RAAF's de Havilland DHC-4 Caribou tactical light transport aircraft (see video below). These will be retired this year instead of by 2013 due to serviceability issues involving corrosion, fatigue, obsolescence and asbestos components. The Caribou has been in RAAF service since 1964. Five Beechcraft King Air 300s will be leased to replace the aircraft as they are progressively retired.
The Australian Defence Force's air power will be on full display next week, with over 50 aircraft from all three services present at the show. "The ADF's flying and ground displays at Avalon will aim to inspire the next generation of air crew and ground support teams. Defence Force Recruiting will have a significant presence," says Australia's Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Mark Binskin.
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