Have you been to a military air show? The Navy’s Blue Angels and Air Force Thunderbirds both put on a great show for families all over the country.
They recently released their 2018 and 2019 schedules. If you haven’t been to a military air show, make plans to attend one this year. If you have been to one of these exciting military air shows, share this information with friends so that they may experience the fun too.
The Blue Angels are the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron. Surprisingly, they have been around since 1946. You don’t want to miss their amazing military air show. They are scheduled for 59 demonstrations in 31 locations this year and 61 demonstrations in 32 locations next year. With this many military air shows scheduled, you are sure to find one near you. Their schedule is available by clicking here.
What can you expect from a Blue Angels’ air show?
It’s a great family event to go to. This year marks the 72nd year of the Navy’s Blue Angels and they are sure to put on a good show. It is such a popular event that over the years they have performed for close to 500 million spectators.
At the military air show, you will not only see a dazzling performance of flight maneuvers, but you will also have a chance to see the planes up-close. You might even be able to meet some of the pilots and ask them questions. Here are 60 questions answered on their website. You might find your answer there, but you’ll still want to meet one of the pilots. They’ll have great stories because they love talking about their experiences.
The Air Force’s demonstration team will celebrate 65 years of showcasing the latest advancement in aircraft this May.
What can you expect from a Thunderbirds’ air show?
Another great military air show not to miss is the Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, also known as the Thunderbirds. If you don’t live near a location that the Blue Angels will be performing, review the show schedule here for the Air Force Thunderbirds. This is another fun military air show that your family will love.
The show is an hour long and packed with exciting aerial maneuvers. It all begins with a drill type ground ceremony before the planes take flight. Once in the air you will see tight formations with only a few feet between the planes. You’ll witness precise techniques used by the solo performances. This really is a show not to be missed.
Both the Thunderbirds and Blue Angels have long and rich histories. Attending one of their military air shows is a great opportunity to learn about how they were started and how aviation has changed over the years. The Air Force’s demonstration team will celebrate 65 years of showcasing the latest advancement in aircraft this May.
When the Air Force’s official air demonstration team was founded in 1953, the Air Force had been its separate service for only 6 years. There were only 7 officers and 22 enlisted as part of the team. Their show was only 15 minutes as well.
Since then 325 officers have been part of the team over the years.
The military air shows have been great recruitment tools for the Air Force. The Navy uses the Blue Angels military air shows for recruitment as well. The current commanding officer hopes that those that witness the precision and dedication of the team will be inspired to “strive for greatness and follow their dreams.” Both the Air Force and Navy have been successful in these endeavors.
Have you attended a military air show in the past? What was your favorite part of it?
Where do I find the 2018 schedule?