Pitch Black Mindil Beach Flying Display 2026

The Royal Australian Air Force and international partners will return to Mindil Beach for the Exercise Pitch Black Flying Display between 5:00pm and 6:30pm on Thursday 23 July 2026.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Northern Territory sunset, this free, non-ticketed event will coincide with the regular Mindil Beach Markets.

The flying display has become a traditional part of the Exercise Pitch Black calendar since 2012, combining international visitors from around the globe with an iconic Northern Territory location and symbolises the close relationship between Defence and Exercise Pitch Black, with the Top End community.

Commentary on the displays, as well as interviews with aircrew, will be provided by ABC Darwin Radio 105.7 ABC Darwin Live Audio - ABC Listen. The event is scheduled to be live streamed on the Royal Australian Air Force YouTube.