Continuing Season After Mishap

The US Air Force Thunderbirds are continuing their show schedule after reviewing their procedures following a mishap Aug. 20 at the Chicago Air and Water Show when two aircraft touched in flight.

During one of the maneuvers, two of the team's F-16 Fighting Falcons touched wingtips. The show was halted following the incident. Both aircraft landed safely.

"Safety is paramount in everything we do," said Lt. Col. Mike Chandler, team commander. "After our incident Saturday we reviewed our procedures and will continue the season this weekend in Westfield, Mass.”

The Thunderbirds will continue their weekly practices Tuesday over the ranges near Creech Air Force Base, Nev. Following the practices the team will deploy on a two-week trip Thursday to perform at shows in Westfield, Mass; Atlantic City, N.J., and Cleveland.

“Every maneuver we do during our demonstration is designed and executed with safety as our first priority,” Colonel Chandler said.

“After taking a deeper look at our flying procedures, I have the utmost confidence in our safety for the crowd, our pilots and planes. Since we're satisfied with our procedures, we'll continue our season." 

FMI: www.airforce.com/thunderbirds