C-17A Globemaster III flying activity along Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast

Up to three C-17A Globemaster III transport aircraft will conduct a coastal flight on 8 December 2023 as part of Exercise Global Dexterity 23-2.

The aircraft are from the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), Royal Air Force (RAF), and United States Air Force (USAF). The aircraft will fly at an altitude down to 600 metres, with at least 300 metres of distance between each aircraft.

This flight coincides with the conclusion of Exercise Global Dexterity 23-2, which began on 27 November 2023.

Held twice a year, Exercise Global Dexterity allows participants to develop their working relationships and ensure they have the skills to work together in the Indo-Pacific.

This flying activity is subject to weather and operational availability of aircraft, and may be delayed or cancelled with little notice. Aircrew will coordinate with air traffic control and other stakeholders to ensure it is conducted safely. 

Noise reduction and the environment are vital considerations in the planning and conduct of military flying.

More information about the C-17A is available from Air Force C-17A-Globemaster III page.


For more information, visit the Defence Aircraft Noise website or call 1300 DEFENCE (1300 333 362).

Flying schedule

  • Friday, 08 December 2023 - 10:40 AM to 11:30 AM
  • Aircraft will fly south in a formation along Noosa Heads from 10:40 AM
  • They will continue over Bribie/Moreton/North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah, and past Gold Coast around 11:15 AM, before returning to RAAF Base Amberley