News

Two highly sought-after acts added to air show

  • Published
  • 55th Wing Public Affairs

While the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds are set as the headliner of the 2016 Offutt Defenders of Freedom Open House and Air Show July 30-31, other performers are starting to fill up the schedule.

 

One of the most anticipated and highly sought after performers who have recently joined the mix is the U.S. Navy’s VFA-122 Super Hornet Demonstration Team.

 

The VFA-122 tactical demonstration team, or tac demo team, fly the single seat F/A-18E and the two-seat F/A-18F. Their routine highlights the aircraft’s maneuverability and slow-speed handling characteristics.

 

“We are totally stoked to be able to add this team to our lineup,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. John Nagy, air show ground director. “I would strongly encourage everyone to make sure they’re paying attention when they take to the sky.”

 

 The tact demo team is based out of Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif. Their group includes three pilots, a weapons systems officer and a number of maintainers who were all chosen for their abilities, knowledge and experience with the aircraft.

 

In addition to the VFA-122 Super Hornet Demonstration Team, the air show staff has also recently added the U.S. Special Operations Command Parachute Team.

 

 The para-commandos perform precision freefall parachute demos at events across the nation and they will open this year’s air show.

 

“We’re so excited to have these special operators kick off the festivities,” Nagy said. “This team is a cross section of military members from across all branches and they’re a great representation of what our active duty force is all about.”

 

The parachute team normally jumps from an altitude of 12,500 above the ground, freefalling approximately two miles while reaching speeds in excess of 120 miles per hour. They are based out of MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.

 

To stay up-to-date on all new performers being added to the air show, check out www.offuttairshow.com or like them on Facebook.