The French are coming.
The Armée de l'air (French Air force) is the first international air force to confirm they intend to return to the Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow next Easter.
It will be the third Warbirds over Wanaka attended by the French, who would bring their CASA military transport aircraft.
The aircraft and crew were stationed at the Tontouta military base in New Caledonia.
Major Laurent Monfort of the French Air Force said the visit would depend on operational issues closer to the the time but at this stage they looked forward to coming back to Wanaka.
Warbirds Over Wanaka General Manager Ed Taylor said he was delighted the French air force would make their third appearance at the show.
"They are such a great bunch of guys to deal with and are a real hit with the public.''
He expected there to be a large military presence at the airshow's 30th anniversary celebrations next year.
Invitations had been sent to other international air forces and Mr Taylor said he expected to hear back from them later this year.
It was hoped a large contingent of aircraft from the Royal New Zealand Air Force would head the military line up.
