Air Combat Command Cites Budget Reductions As Reasons For The Move

A major draw for air shows large and small is the ability for the public to see military aircraft much closer than they would probably be able to otherwise. But looming defense budget cuts may spell at least a temporary end to the displays by Air Force planes at many shows, often seen as an effective recruiting tool.

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In an official Air Combat Command (ACC) statement forwarded to ANN, the command, the Air Force’s primary force provider, says that due to significant fiscal constraints, they are being required to make tough decisions about the best ways to continue providing combat airpower to warfighting commanders.

"One decision we’ve made is to sponsor one single-ship demonstration team for the 2012 air show season, scaling back from the six teams we’ve historically sponsored – A-10 East & West, F-16 East & West, F-15E and F-22," the statement reads. "For the 2012 season, we’re sponsoring our F-22 demonstration team to perform at up to 20 shows. In addition to the F-22 demonstration team, the Thunderbirds are set to complete a full season next year, and their schedule will be announced next week at the International Council of Air Shows conference.

"Reducing the number of single-ship demonstration teams will allow us to reallocate more than 900 sorties to our wings so they can maximize their flying hours for combat readiness training, offsetting some of the reduction we’ve seen in flying hours. Most importantly, reallocating those sorties will provide an increase in more than 25 combat-ready fighter pilots – that’s a very good thing for our Nation and wise stewardship of our limited resources.

"The opportunity to showcase our aircrew at air shows around the country is important – and we’re confident our Thunderbirds, F-22 demonstration team and Heritage Flight Foundation will continue highlighting the extraordinary work of all our Airmen."

FMI: www.acc.af.mil/main/welcome.asp