Flying activity for Exercise Pitch Black 26 will be conducted from 20 July to 6 August 2026, bringing together Royal Australian Air Force personnel and international partners.

During this period, residents in and around operating bases may notice increased aircraft movements, including both day and night flying.

Flying periods during Exercise Pitch Black 2026 from RAAF Base Darwin and RAAF Base Tindal are outlined below. These schedules are designed to maximise training outcomes while minimising disruption to local communities, with flying generally occurring in designated daytime and evening windows.

Monday 20 July

0900-1315

1530-1930 - mid afternoon

Tuesday 21 July

0900-1315

1530-1900

Wednesday 22 July

0900-1230

1530-1945

Thursday 23 July

0900-1315

1600-1840

Friday 24 July 0900-1315
Monday 27 – Thursday 30 July

1300-1600

1930-2200 evening

Monday 3 August 1930-2200
Tuesday 4 – Thursday  6 August

1300-1600

1930-2200