Map Released For Friday's Thunderbirds Flyover: Riverside County
RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — The Air Force's famous Thunderbirds will honor frontline COVID-19 responders and essential workers Friday with formation flights over Riverside, Los Angeles and San Diego.
"It is an honor for our team to salute the countless Californians who have committed to keeping the communities safe during this difficult time in our nation," said Lt. Col. John Caldwell, commander of the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron. "We hope to give onlookers a touching display of American resolve that honors those serving on the frontline of our fight against COVID-19."
A formation of six F-16C/D Fighting Falcons will conduct the flyovers as a salute to health care workers, first responders, military and other essential personnel while standing in solidarity with all Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Residents along the flight path can expect a few moments of jet noise as the aircraft pass overhead, along with the sight of a half-dozen high- performance aircraft flying in precise formation.
The squadron will begin its pass over Riverside County around 2 p.m., moving into the area from the west, passing just north of Lake Mathews then following a looping path over Moreno Valley, Riverside, Jurupa Valley and Mead Valley. The entire pass will last roughly 10 minutes.
Residents will be able to see the flyover from their homes and were urged to maintain all social distancing guidelines during the event. Air Force officials also advised people not to travel to landmarks or hospitals and avoid gathering in large groups to view the flyover, officials said.
The Air Force encouraged people who take photos to tag them on social media as #AmericaStrong and #Thunderbirds.
Tomorrow's #AmericaStrong flyover serves as a salute to frontline COVID-19 responders in California.— Thunderbirds (@AFThunderbirds) May 14, 2020
IMPORTANT CHANGE: Los Angeles flyover start time shifted and will now start at 1:35 PM (not 1:10 PM) #InThisTogether 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/Wnv7NqeGSH
