It breaks my heart as a Blink 182 fan to deliver the following news, but best get it done quick. Travis Barker will not be making the journey Down Under to perform at either Soundwave 2013, or their previously announced headlining shows.

It was always going to be a huge ask to get Travis back on a plane after the 2008 plane crash. Despite claims that it would be happening, the band announced via Facebook today that he will not be performing. As per the announcement, which you can read in full below, the sticks duties will be aptly handled by Brooks Wackerman, who sits behind the skins for Bad Religion and Tenacious D.

The band seem pretty gutted by the decision; check out the full statement below. AJ Maddah has also confirmed the news that Barker did not make the flight to Australia that left today.

Official statement from Blink 182

The trip to Australia was planned during our European tour last summer. The band knew the chances of Travis overcoming his fear of flying, which was magnified after the horrible plane crash in 2008, would be a challenge, but we wanted to play for our fans in Australia nonetheless. The three of us tried all measures to get us all there in full form. Travis has been working to overcome his fear of flying. Since we now know we have to make the trip without Travis our friend Brooks Wackerman (Bad Religion, Tenacious D) has stepped in. We love our fans in Australia so canceling was not an option so we still plan to come and play some kick ass shows. Mark, Tom, and Travis

Sadly, despite his best efforts with counselling, medication, etc, Travis Barker was unable to board his flight today. #blink182 #sw13 — AJ (@iamnotshouting) February 17, 2013

Knowing @travisbarker he will be depressed having had to break his promise to Aus fans. Please be understanding & show your support. #SW13 — AJ (@iamnotshouting) February 17, 2013

https://twitter.com/travisbarker/status/302993442341023744/