Have you ever felt the ground shake as an F/A-18 Hornet buzzed overhead? Or stood by as four jets flew so close to each other that their wings almost touch? Air demonstrations and trade shows provide an opportunity for people to see U.S. military air capabilities in action and meet the service members who fly and maintain the equipment. Visit these resources to find out what shows are happening in your area.
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Air Combat Command is responsible for scheduling aerial and public display of aircraft including the F-22 Raptor, F-16 Viper and the A-10 Thunderbolt II demonstration teams, in addition to the U.S. Air Force Heritage Flight program.
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The Air Force’s air demonstration squadron, the Thunderbirds, performs precision maneuvers demonstrating the capabilities of high performance aircraft and exhibits the professional qualities the Air Force develops in the people who fly, maintain and support the aircraft.
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The Army’s Golden Knights are one of only three DoD-sanctioned aerial demonstration teams, along with the Navy’s Blue Angels and the Air Force’s Thunderbirds. The team is comprised of about 95 men and women, which includes four parachute units, an aviation unit and a headquarters.
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Navy Tactical Demonstration teams perform at events with a range of aircraft and equipment.
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The Blue Angels strive to embody a commitment to excellence and passion for naval aviation. The team consists of 130 active-duty sailors and Marines, each one bringing experience and expertise from their service.
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The Navy Parachute Team, the Leap Frogs, demonstrate excellence by performing precision aerial maneuvers in support of Navy public outreach.
(This article was originally published Sept. 14, 2018)
