30,000 Flock to Canberra Airport Open Day 2026, Causing Majura Traffic Gridlock

Approximately 30,000 visitors attended the Canberra Airport Open Day 2026 on Saturday, overwhelming local road networks and bringing traffic to a standstill around Majura Park. The event, which featured aerial displays, historic and modern aircraft exhibits, and family-friendly activities, drew large crowds despite ongoing concerns about congestion and parking limitations.

According to eyewitness accounts shared on social media and local forums, attendees experienced significant delays accessing the venue via Majura Parkway, with gridlock reported both entering and exiting the precinct. One Reddit user described being “caught in traffic” and feeling like they had “aged 6 years” due to the standstill, while others noted that although crowds were generally courteous in letting vehicles merge, the volume of cars far exceeded the area’s capacity.

Facebook posts from attendees echoed these sentiments, with many praising the event’s organization and attractions—including performances by the RMC Pep Band, live broadcasts by Amplify CBR, and appearances by community mascots like Kenny the Koala—but urging better traffic management for future editions. Suggestions included improved signage, staggered entry times, and enhanced public transport options to reduce reliance on private vehicles.

The Canberra Airport’s official event page confirmed that registrations for the open day were fully booked prior to the event, indicating strong public interest. Highlights of the program included morning and afternoon aerial displays featuring the Wolf Pitts 360 and Grumman Avenger aircraft, a midday performance by the RAAF Roulettes, and a special appearance by the 100SQN Lockheed Hudson. Ground attractions ranged from industry stall holders and free shuttle buses to aircraft static displays and interactive experiences from the air.

Food and beverage options, entertainment tents, and family-focused activities—such as meet-and-greets with mascots representing ACT Policing, Cancer Council, and the Canberra Hospital Foundation—contributed to the event’s broad appeal. Despite the logistical challenges, many attendees described the day as enjoyable and well worth the wait.

As Canberra Airport continues to host major public aviation events, the 2026 Open Day underscores both the enduring popularity of such gatherings and the pressing need for coordinated transport planning to accommodate growing attendance without disrupting surrounding communities.