The retiring F-111 strike aircraft will appear for its farewell air show before making way for the newly acquired Super Hornet, which will also strut its stuff during the two-day event.

Head of special events Air Commodore Philip Byrne said 30,000 people a day were likely to attend on September 18 and 19.

‘‘I have a feeling this will be the biggest event for Newcastle this year,’’ he said.

Air Commodore Byrne said the air show would be the largest seen in the Hunter.

Commander of Air Combat Group Air Commodore Mel Hupfield will unveil plans for the display today at the Williamtown base with Newcastle lord mayor John Tate and Port Stephens mayor Bruce MacKenzie.

Examples of the RAAF’s full contingent of aircraft will be on show, from fighters such as the new Super Hornet, the monstrous c-17 Globemaster, and navy helicopters.

‘‘There will also be a range of historical and significant aircraft like Meteors and Spitfires as well as a host of civil aircraft,’’ Air Commodore Byrne said.

‘‘The tarmac will be full of current and historic aircraft.’’

The US Air Force will also display some of its airborne hardware.

Air Commodore Byrne said planning was under way to manage increased traffic, parking and entry to the base.

Civil aircraft will fly from adjacent Newcastle Airport during the weekend of the show but travellers are advised to arrive three hours before flights to account for traffic delays.

Defence will host information displays on the air show in the coming months.