After a cumulative 408,000 hours in the skies, the iconic Classic Hornet aircraft has flown for the final time.
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Seven of the aircraft fleet transited from RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory to Newcastle, NSW this week to complete their military careers.
The F/A-18A/B Classic Hornets has served the Australian air force for 30 years, but have now been farewelled to make way for the fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II fighter.
The original two jets arrived to Williamtown base in Newcastle from California on May 17 1985.
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The first operational deployment of RAAF Hornets took place on November 2001 following the September 11 terrorist attacks.
Group Captain Jason Easthope flew the final display route over Williamtown base as the fleet was officially decommissioned.
"It was bittersweet for me today because I'm passionate about flying and I love flying the Hornet but it was pretty clear to me today that it was coming to an end," Group Captain Easthope said on Monday.
Matthew Kelly
In recent years he has reported on subjects including environment, energy, water security, manufacturing and higher education.
He has previously covered issues including the health and environmental impacts of uncovered coal wagons in the Hunter Valley, the pollution of legacy of former industrial sites and freedom of information issues.
Emma Horn
Supervising producer of the national video team. Former features and weekender writer for The Daily Advertiser. Now based in the NSW Hunter region. Small, quiet, and a student of the Paddington Bear School Of Staring. Usually dressed in something colourful, always snacking on something homemade, often watching birds. Friend to most mothers and all dogs. Got stories? Get in touch. emma.horn@austcommunitymedia.com.au
