03/08/2016: F-35 Heritage Flight Team qualified on March 6th 2016 during the Heritage Flight Conference to join the Air Combat Command Air Force Heritage Flight program.
The program features modern USAF fighter aircraft flying alongside WW2, Korean War, and Vietnam-era aircraft in a display of airpower history.
The F-35 Heritage team is from the 61st Fighter Squadron at Luke AFB, AZ.
It consists of 10 maintainers and one F-35 pilot, Maj. William Andreotta.
The qualification conference took place at Davis-Monthan AFB near Tucson AZ.
These flights will allow all Americans to learn more about the F-35 and at the same time see just how far airpower has come over the years,” said Brig. Gen Scott Pleus, 56th Fighter Wing commander.
“I think it’s very important for everyone to have a chance to watch the F-35 fly and see firsthand what a great capability this fighter jet will give to the U.S. and our partner nations.
We’ve flown thousands of sorties and hours in this jet already, and are excited to be able to show it to the public.”
“The F-35 will be the backbone of the USAF fighter fleet and represents the future for the U.S., our partners and allies. Being a part of these heritage flights provides a unique insight into the past and the future,” said Pleus.
The heritage flight team will attend the Heritage Flight Conference at Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tuscon, Arizona, in preparation for taking part in heritage flight demonstrations during the 2016 air show season.
It also enables flying dissimilar aircraft in close formation.
Credit:56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs:3/6/16