United States Navy Blue Angels

Prepare for an unforgettable spectacle as the legendary U.S. Navy Blue Angels descend upon the Magic Valley Airshow! For decades, this elite flight demonstration squadron has captivated audiences worldwide, showcasing the pinnacle of naval aviation prowess and inspiring millions with their breathtaking aerial ballet.

The Blue Angels, formally known as the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, were formed in 1946 with a mission to showcase the teamwork, professionalism, and precision of the United States Navy and Marine Corps. They achieve this by pushing the limits of the F/A-18 Super Hornet, the cutting-edge strike fighter that forms the core of their awe-inspiring display.

The F/A-18 Super Hornet, the current aircraft flown by the Blue Angels, is a versatile, twin-engine, carrier-capable multirole fighter. While the Blue Angels' Super Hornets are modified for their unique demonstration (including the removal of the nose cannon and the addition of a smoke-oil tank), they are fundamentally the same powerful aircraft that serve at the forefront of naval operations around the globe. This allows the team to truly demonstrate the capabilities of the fleet's workhorse.

At the Magic Valley Airshow, you'll witness a meticulously choreographed performance that highlights the incredible skill of the Blue Angels pilots and the raw power of their jets. The demonstration is divided into two key elements:

• The Diamond Formation: Four aircraft fly in incredibly close proximity, often less than three feet apart, executing gravity-defying maneuvers like loops, rolls, and transitions. The precision and trust required for these formations are truly astounding.
• The Lead and Opposing Solos: These two aircraft showcase the F/A-18's raw power and agility with high-speed passes, slow passes, tight turns, and awe-inspiring opposing maneuvers where they cross paths at combined closing speeds of over 1,000 mph, often less than 100 feet apart.

Beyond the sheer thrill of their aerial maneuvers, the Blue Angels' presence at the Magic Valley Airshow carries a deeper meaning. They serve as ambassadors of goodwill, connecting with communities, visiting schools, and inspiring future generations to pursue excellence and consider careers in STEM fields and military service. Every member of the team, from the pilots to the dedicated maintenance and support crews, is an active-duty Sailor or Marine, exemplifying the core values of the Navy and Marine Corps.

So, get ready to feel the thunderous roar, witness the unparalleled precision, and be inspired by the teamwork of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels at the Magic Valley Airshow. This is more than just an airshow; it's a testament to dedication, skill, and the enduring spirit of American aviation.