Randy Ball feels honored to be considered for program that displays USAF air power evolution

According to the USAF's Air Combat Command website, the Heritage Flight program was established in 1997 in support of the Air Force's 50th anniversary, and it features state of the art fighters flying in close formation with World War II and Korean War aircraft, such as the P-51 Mustang and F-86 Sabre jet. The mission of the program is "to safely and proudly display the evolution of United States Air Force air power and to support the Air Force's recruiting and retention efforts."

Three years ago, Randy Ball, an ICAS member who thrills crowds at air shows with his Check Six MIG-17F, started flying a various shows across the country alongside an F-4 Phantom. Both of the aircraft saw heavy action in the Vietnam War, and Ball considers these flights not only an honor, but an excellent opportunity to display the technology of the day, and represent the experiences of Vietnam-era pilots.

However, in order to fly these missions, approval from the USAF Air Combat Command is necessary, as all the F-4 Phantoms with which he flies are owned by the military. Every time the duo plans to fly, they have to go through the same process of requesting permission.

As a way to reduce the paperwork, heads were put together and the conclusion was reached that what was needed was for the ACC to approve Randy Ball's participation in the Heritage Flight program. That approval would mean a blanket approval to fly with the F-4 without having to go through the repetitive paperwork.

The application has been made, and now Ball awaits a decision that he considers would be a great honor; the first foreign-built aircraft to participate in the Heritage Flight program.

FMI: http://www2.acc.af.mil/airdemo/heritage.htm, www.fighterjets.com