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The USAF Thunderbirds

Updated 05-Jul-2011

The USAF Thunderbirds

The USAF Thunderbirds, is an aerobatic display team, with the powerful and agile F-16C making sure that every display is fast and loud. Apart from the colour scheme, these F-16s are almost identical to the operational planes.

The USAF Thunderbirds in the early mornign sun

Although there are eight aircraft, only six actually fly during the displays. The reasons given are the huge cost in running so many fuel-hungry jets and the difficulties of flying a large number of fast, powerful planes in formation and performing stunts.

Formation flying

Much of the formation flying is done by four jets, the remaining two performing high-speed passes and other stunts.

The F-16s are equipped with afterburners, so six of them together make quite a lot of noise!

After their display

Once again, the aircraft are parked up offering a splendid view to the public.

Visits to the UK are rare as the team has many displays to do in their own country. These pictures are from RAF Waddington during the 2011 International Air Show.

Links

The official USAF Thunderbirds website.

Jaropa

Our Waddington International Air Show page.
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