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.

• 20-26 July: Morning and early afternoon launches of aircraft 
• 27-30 July: Early afternoon and late afternoon launches of aircraft
• 3-6 August: Late afternoon and evening launches of aircraft.