More-powerful planes throw T-birds for a loop

[unhappycamper]

More-powerful planes throw T-birds for a loop
By Erik Holmes - Staff writer
Posted : Wednesday Mar 11, 2009 17:32:26 EDT

The Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, better known as the Thunderbirds, kicks off its 2009 air show season Thursday with its annual acceptance show at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.

The acceptance show gives the commander of Air Combat Command, Gen. John Corley, a chance to preview the demonstration and sign off on the 2009 program before the Thunderbirds hit the road.

The season officially starts March 21 with a show at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., and concludes Nov. 15 at Nellis.

The acceptance show will be the team’s first chance to show off its newer block 52 F-16 jets, which feature more powerful engines and advanced avionics.

The additional thrust will allow the Thunderbirds to start off each show with a bang. Within a few seconds of lifting off the runway, a four-aircraft diamond-formation loop will execute a full loop.


Rest of article at: http://airforcetimes.com/news/2009/03/airforce_thunderbirds_031109/%2e

[BobRossi]

1. First time I saw them....

I was stationed at Castle AFB, CA. They were flying F4's.
Awesome show.