US Navy “Blue Angels” to Perform at Sun ‘n Fun

(Courtesy of U.S. Navy Blue Angels)The United States Navy’s (USN) “Blue Angels” military jet demonstration team will be the featured air show performers at this year’s Sun ’n Fun International Fly-In & Expo, which will be held March 29 - April 3 on its campus at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in Lakeland, Florida.

“Sun ‘n Fun is honored and excited to host one of the world’s most recognized military jet teams – the Blue Angels – and to recognize the 100th anniversary of Naval aviation during our 2011 event,” said Sun ’n Fun President John Burton.  “Their participation will add to the exciting array of aircraft and activities already planned for Sun ’n Fun’s 37th annual celebration.  We’re excited about having the Blue Angels take to the skies over Lakeland, especially as they perform their aerial magic for our attendees and area guests.” 

The Blue Angels plan to arrive at Sun ’n Fun on Thursday, March 31 and will conduct individual media flights and a team training flight prior to their scheduled performances on Saturday and Sunday, April 2 and 3.

Advanced discounted ticket packages to Sun ’n Fun are available on the Sun ’n Fun website at www.sun-n-fun.org.

According to the U.S. Navy, the Blue Angels’ mission is to enhance Navy and Marine Corps recruiting efforts and to represent the naval service to the United States, its elected leadership and foreign nations. The Blue Angels serve as positive role models and goodwill ambassadors for the U. S. Navy and Marine Corps.

A Blue Angels flight demonstration is a choreographed showcase of the types of piloting skills expected of all naval aviators. The Blue Angels’ C-130, affectionately known as “Fat Albert,” begins each demonstration by exhibiting its maximum performance capabilities during a 10-minute performance. Shortly thereafter, you will see the graceful aerobatic maneuvers of the four-jet Diamond Formation, in concert with the fast-paced, high-performance maneuvers of its two Solo pilots. Finally, the team illustrates the pinnacle of precision flying, performing maneuvers locked as a unit in the renowned, six-jet “Delta Formation.”