NELLIS AFB, Nev. – The Thunderbirds “Delta” came together for the first time in 2012 during an air demonstration practice here Jan. 25. The “Delta” is one of two primary formations showcased at performances.

The formations consist of a leader, left and right wing, slot, and two solo positions. The Thunderbirds demonstration is a mix of formation flying and solo routines and the two formations flown are known as the “Diamond,” and the “Delta.”

The “Diamond” involves the first four aircraft flying together, approximately 18 inches apart, and highlight the training and precision of Air Force Airmen.

The “Delta” formation involves all six aircraft flying together in perfect synchronization and takes place toward the end of the Thunderbirds demonstration. This formation requires teamwork, both in the air and on the ground. When the formation finally takes place, it’s the first opportunity the Thunderbirds have to see all the months of hard work and training come together.

The Thunderbirds pilots have spent many hours in the air preparing for this upcoming demonstration season. The team pilots complete a two-year tour on the team, and roughly half of the team’s demonstration pilots change out each year. This year, the team gained a new leader, right wing, and opposing solo.

Thunderbirds pilots one through four fly approximately 92 hours prior to the “Diamond” formation coming together as well as an additional 52 hours prior to forming the “Delta” for the first time. The two solo aircraft fly approximately 90 hours before the first “Delta” formation. The pilots are expected to fly more than 190 additional hours prior to the start of the show season. All together, Thunderbirds pilots will log more than 420 hours of flying before the first official demonstration takes place.

Major Caroline Jensen, Thunderbird No. 3, the team’s new right wing pilot said she’s been training with the team since last November and there’s an enormous amount of preparation that goes into ensuring the team’s show season is a success.

“We all come to this team as experienced fighter pilots, but our years of training are ‘building blocks’ to ensure everything comes together,” Jensen said. “All the training hours are necessary to ensure the maneuvers are executed safely and with precision. The ‘Delta’ coming together is a huge milestone for us and represents the skill and teamwork of this squadron. It’s exciting to finally see everything come together.”

This year marks the 59th Thunderbirds show season. The team is set to perform more than 60 demonstrations in 34 locations, including two shows in Canada.

“We are excited about the upcoming season and representing our fellow American Airmen,” said Lt. Col. Greg Moseley, the team’s new commander and leader. “We feel honored to tell the story of U.S. Air Force Airmen and will proudly represent each Airmen with the same pride, precision and professionalism in which they perform their duties each and every day.”

By Tech. Sgt. Alice Diddle
U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron Public Affairs