Fighter Combat Air Patrol To Join Thunderbirds Over Miami

Sunday you might want to double-check the database on your GPS if you're planning to fly around Miami -- it would not be a good day to bust the TFR...

The Continental US North American Aerospace Defense Command Region is stepping up its air patrols in the Miami-Dade area to increase security during Super Bowl XLI activities.

Spectators will see the Air Force Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, fly over Dolphin Stadium February 4 during pregame events, and other Air Force fighter jets in the local area during the game.

The patrols are a smart, efficient way to protect American lives and resources in the region, said Major General Henry C. Morrow, the commander of both 1st Air Force and Continental US North American Aerospace Defense Command Region.

"NORAD protects a variety of national assets across the nation on any given day," Morrow said. "In this instance we are increasing our sorties in the Miami-Dade area as part of our continuing resolve to protect our homeland and citizens during these major events."

In preparation for Super Bowl XLI, NORAD fighters will make low approaches at several local airports February 2, including Boca Raton, Pompano Beach Airpark, Fort Lauderdale Executive, Opa Locka, and Kendall-Tamiami Executive.

Air patrols are carefully planned and closely controlled to ensure public safety while demonstrating NORAD's rapid response capability. NORAD has conducted air patrols throughout the US and Canada since the start of Operation Noble Eagle -- the command's response to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The flights will have minimal impact on aircraft in the area and are not in response to any specific threat.

"We want citizens to know that we remain dedicated to protecting their freedoms as we project our determination to preserve peace and our way of life," Morrow said.

FMI: www.norad.mil