On May 24th, at an aviation exhibition held in Florida, USA, the US Air Force showcased a formation flight performance featuring seven different types of fighter jets and bombers. It was rare for the department to display such a variety of main military aircraft simultaneously to the public.
The US Air Force Global Strike Command stated in a press release that during the “Hyundai Air and Sea Show” held on Miami Beach, they presented the formation flight performance called “The Freedom Flyover” for the first time.
The aircraft participating in this flight included one each of the B-2 bomber, B-1B bomber, B-52H bomber, F-22 fighter, F-15C fighter, F-16C fighter, and A-10 attack aircraft. Led by the B-2 bomber, these planes flew in formation at low altitude.
While previous air and sea shows in the past years and events in other countries have featured performances of three bombers flying at low altitudes, this was the first time that fighter jets joined in, forming different formations.
The US Air Force Global Strike Command mentioned that the formation flight performance showcased the overall strength of the Air Force personnel. Active duty Air Force, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard pilots all participated, demonstrating the Air Force’s inter-departmental cooperation ability.
The Air Force Reserve Command stated in a press release that four Air Force Reserve units, six Air Force Reserve platforms, as well as multiple Air Force Reserve aircrew and support personnel participated in the show. Historically, this annual performance held over Memorial Day weekend attracts over 500,000 spectators each day.
Commander John Healy emphasized, “Almost every aspect you see today has some level of connection to the Air Force Reserve units.”
He stressed that the distinction between the Air Force Reserve units and active duty units is almost indiscernible. Without the support of the Reserve units, the aviation exhibition could not have been organized in this manner.
In addition to the flight performances, Air Force Global Strike Command Commander Thomas Bussiere also presided over a large-scale enlistment ceremony at the air show, where over 150 new recruits from various branches recited their enlistment oaths.
Israel Nuñez, the Senior Advisor to the Chief of Air Force Reserve and Reserve Commander, said, “Seeing so many young people taking the enlistment oath is truly inspiring. For our nation’s newest Air Force soldiers, reciting the oath is not just a formality but a powerful commitment to defend our country and the freedom we cherish.”
Air Force Senior Airman Bryant Guardia, who served as a recruiter during the air show, said, “It’s a great opportunity to interact with the local public and showcase the Air Force and all its branches. It’s a fantastic chance to attract and recruit the next generation of aviators to join our ranks.”