BY TIM BOLGER
The Blue Angels and the Thunderbirds will fly over Long Island on Tuesday in a show of support to honor healthcare heroes and essential workers on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic.
The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron announced the plans Saturday. The exact time that the flyover can be seen locally will be announced Monday.
“We are truly excited to take to the skies with our Navy counterparts for a nationwide tribute to the men and women keeping our communities safe,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. John Caldwell, who’s leading the flyover. “We hope to give Americans a touching display of American resolve that honors those serving on the frontline of our fight with COVID-19.”
The flyover, part of a nationwide tour to lift Americans’ spirits during the turmoil, will include six F-16 Fighting Falcons that make up the Thunderbirds and six F-18 Hornets that make up the Blue Angels. It was originally planned for last week but was rescheduled.
The flyover announcement comes after the Bethpage Air Show at Jones Beach, the largest annual event on LI, was canceled due to coronavirus.
The flyovers are expected to start at noon Tuesday over New York City, and the surrounding area. That part will last about 35 minutes, with spectators on the ground able to catch a glimpse of the flyover for a few seconds before the squadron flies over Trenton and Philadelphia. LI officials confirmed the flyover would extend over the Island.
The U.S. Air Force urges the public to watch the flyover while continuing to stay at home to comply with social distancing orders to avoid the spread of COVID-19.
The teams welcome and encourage viewers to tag the flyover on social media with the hashtag #AmericaStrong.
See the flight path below.
This story first appeared on longislandpress.com.
