Two Royal Australian Air Force F/A-18F Super Hornets and one C-17A Globemaster III will conduct rehearsal flights in the lead-up to the Brisbane Festival’s annual Riverfire, on Friday 4 September 2026.

Imagery

Further information about the F/A-18F Super Hornet and C-17A Globemaster III can be found at: https://www.airforce.gov.au/aircraft/18f-super-hornet https://www.airforce.gov.au/aircraft/c-17-globemaster 

Following Brisbane Riverfire, rehearsal flights imagery can be found at http://images.defence.gov.au/S20262164

Drone use over Brisbane during Riverfire 2026

For the safety of spectators, drones are not permitted at Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust.

Due to low-flying aircraft and fireworks, drones are prohibited to be flown within 1500m of the event venue areas (ie St Lucia, Brisbane City, South Brisbane, Kangaroo Point, Fortitude Valley, New Farm) for the event and the days of the rehearsal flights on Friday, 4 September.

Flying displays involve complex aircraft operations at relatively low levels and drones create unnecessary safety risks. 

The airspace for Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust and the rehearsal flights is carefully managed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. 

Drone flights can lead to disruption, delays or cancellation of the flying displays.

We ask all attendees to help keep the event safe by leaving drones at home and enjoying the show from the ground.

Media Note

Defence spokespeople are available for interview on request. 

Low-level flying activities are conducted in accordance with strict safety and operational guidelines.

Flying is subject to change, including short notice cancellation, due to variables such as air traffic control requirements, weather, and operational availability.

Defence is committed to balancing the efficient and responsible use of fuel while ensuring our people remain trained, ready and prepared to conduct operations in support of Australia’s national interests.

Noise reduction and the environment are vital considerations in the planning and conduct of military flying. Information on aircraft noise and current flying activities is available at www.defence.gov.au/aircraftnoise or by calling 1300 DEFENCE (1300 333 362).

Drone use is prohibited before and during the flypasts due to the safety risk posed to aircraft operations.