One of the world’s greatest aerobatics display teams will make a rare UK appearance at next summer’s Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.
The United States Air Force’s renowned Thunderbirds last appeared in the UK six years ago but have never taken part in the Air Tattoo before.
Formed in 1953, the Thunderbirds are based at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada and comprise six F-16 ‘Fighting Falcons’. Unusual for national aerobatics display teams, two of the pilots are women: Major Nicole Malachowski and Capt Samantha Weeks. In 2006, Maj Malachowski became the Thunderbirds’ first ever female demonstration pilot. For the 2007 season, Capt Weeks from 12th Fighter Squadron, based in Alaska, will join her.
The team is famed as much for its theatrical pre-flight ground routine, which is performed with pinpoint accuracy, as it is for its stunning aerial displays.
The Thunderbirds’ performance at the Air Tattoo on July 14-15 will be their only UK appearance next summer and will be part of the airshow’s official tribute to mark the United States Air Force’s 60th anniversary.
Air Tattoo Director Tim Prince said despite having been involved in the airshow for more than 35 years he still gets a thrill out of welcoming new acts to RAF Fairford.
“The Thunderbirds team is one I’ve been particularly looking forward to welcoming for many years and people should not miss this rare opportunity to see them in the UK. They are quite unique in the airshow world, not least for the entertaining ritual they perform before each display. Youngsters, in particular, will be mesmerised.
“They will be but one of the mouth-watering ingredients we are confident will contribute to a memorable tribute to our USAF friends next July.”
Regards,
Sam
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February 16, 2007 at 8:58 pm