SUN ‘n FUN unveils airshow highlights

Scheduling of airshow performers for the 41st Annual SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In & Expo, scheduled for April 21-26, 2015, in Lakeland, Fla., is in full swing. Topping the list of performers is the Breitling Jet Team and the USAF Thunderbirds.

The Breitling Jet Team will begin their first-ever United States tour at SUN ‘n FUN 2015. The aerobatic display team is comprised of seven L-39 C Albatros jets. Having flown across 36 countries around the world, the Breitling Jet Team will commence their “American Tour” by opening the SUN ‘n FUN event on April 21 and performing throughout the week.

“We are thrilled to announce the 2015 schedule for the Breitling Jet Team,” said Breitling USA President Thierry Prissert. “It will be the first time North American audiences will have a chance to see them, and witness the precision and unmatched skill that goes into their display. They are the epitome of Breitling with pilots who are dedicated to their craft and constantly pushing the envelope with their daring maneuvers.”

The Thunderbirds, the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, will perform April 25-26. The Thunderbirds (pictured above) will exhibit some maximum capabilities of the F-16 Fighting Falcon – the Air Force’s premier multi-role fighter jet. While in Lakeland, the pilots, mechanics, medical staff and members of the USAF Thunderbird team will participate in community events, sharing information about career options and their commitment to excellence. Student participation is being planned.

The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Red Tail Squadron will once again be a highlight in 2015. Their mission is to share the inspiring legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen – America’s first black military pilots and their support personnel. The CAF Red Tail Squadron team provides educational materials and innovative ideas for teachers and others to offer young people they guide the opportunity to be motivated to set goals and “rise above” any obstacles in order to achieve success, engaging them in thinking critically about concepts such as ambition, opportunity, drive and courage. The RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit at airshows and other venues allows people of all ages to learn more about what the Tuskegee Airmen accomplished during World War II and beyond. When possible, original Tuskegee Airmen attend events and lead discussions themselves, not just as celebrity guests, but with an intention of further humanizing the legacy of the Airmen and how their experience can resonate with the lives and struggles of young people today.

For the 41st event, the EAA Warbirds of America will be center stage. Rides will be offered as they bring a WWII B-17 Aluminum Overcast and the Ford Tri-Motor. The Texas Flying Legends will perform, making 2015 the largest Warbird show at SUN ‘n FUN in more than a decade.