Thunderbirds fly over Southern California saluting front line workers
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds conducted flyovers in Southern California today to honor local front line workers battling the COVID-19 pandemic.
LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds conducted flyovers in Los Angeles, Orange County and other areas of Southern California today to honor local front line workers battling the COVID-19 pandemic. Get all the details on the flight path and schedule below.
A formation of six F-16-C/D Fighting Falcons conducted the flyovers as a salute to health care workers, first responders, military and other essential personnel while standing in solidarity with all Americans.
There were two unexpected incidents during the flyover. At one point over the Westside of Los Angeles near the coast, one pilot had to break formation to avoid a midair collision. They pilot was able to regain control and the jets resume the six-ship Delta formation.
Also, the squadron at one point had to deviate from the announced flight path because of other air traffic in the region. That left some in areas like Manhattan Beach disappointed to miss the show.
Thunderbirds fly over Southern California with flight path changes
Watch the full aerial salute here:
The flight path began in the Laguna Beach area in Orange County and made its way to the southern portion of Los Angeles County. It then looped around and reached the Corona area before heading to the Moreno Valley area in Riverside County. The Thunderbirds then reached the Ventura County area and concluded the last leg of the flyover in the Santa Clarita area.
Southern California residents were advised to watch the flyover from the safety of their home-quarantine and refrain from traveling to watch the event. They were also advised to maintain physical distancing and avoid large gatherings.
Blue Angels, Thunderbirds fly over NYC, NJ to salute frontline workers
The Thunderbirds and Blue Angels, the Navy's aerobatics team, are crisscrossing the country with their flyovers, soaring over medical facilities and honoring workers.
The military says it's their way of thanking those fighting the potentially deadly virus.
"We start with a map of the hospitals that have been most affected in our target cities," said Capt. Kyle Oliver of the Thunderbirds.
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