When you think of the Blue Angels, you probably picture jaw-dropping aerobatic maneuvers, the thunderous roar of jet engines, and incredible precision flying. But behind these spectacular air shows is a team of dedicated professionals whose stories often go untold. Let's take a look behind the scenes at the ground crew and support staff who keep the Blue Angels flying high.
While the pilots are the stars of the show, it's the ground crew that forms the backbone of the Blue Angels operation. This amazing team includes maintenance personnel, logisticians, public affairs officers, and medical staff, all of whom play crucial roles in ensuring each performance goes off without a hitch.
The Blue Angels' jets are engineering marvels, but they need a lot of TLC to stay in top condition. The maintenance crew works tirelessly, performing routine checks, repairs, and pre-flight inspections to ensure each F/A-18 Hornet is airworthy. Their attention to detail is crucial because even the smallest oversight can have significant consequences during those high-speed maneuvers.
Coordinating an air show involves more than just flying. The logisticians handle the complex task of planning and executing the transportation of equipment, personnel, and aircraft to various locations. This logistical dance requires precise timing and coordination, often months in advance. From arranging fuel stops to securing accommodations, these behind-the-scenes planners make sure the team arrives on time and ready to perform.
Public engagement is a vital part of the Blue Angels' mission, and the public affairs team manages media relations, social media, and community outreach. They craft the narratives that inspire and educate the public about the Navy's mission and values. Through press releases, interviews, and social media updates, they help maintain the Blue Angels' positive image and foster a deeper connection with the audience.
Flying at high speeds and performing intricate maneuvers takes a toll on the pilots’ bodies. The medical staff ensures that all team members are in peak physical condition. They conduct regular health assessments, provide medical care, and develop fitness programs tailored to the unique demands of the Blue Angels' schedule. Their vigilance ensures that pilots remain healthy and ready to perform.
To truly appreciate the ground crew's contribution, let's walk through a typical day during the air show season. Long before the audience arrives, the ground crew is already hard at work. Maintenance personnel conduct thorough inspections of each aircraft, checking everything from the engines to the control surfaces. They ensure that every system is functioning correctly and address any issues that may have arisen during previous flights.
Logisticians and support staff coordinate the setup of the show site. They manage everything from the placement of support vehicles to the arrangement of seating for VIPs. Public affairs officers prepare for media engagements, setting up interviews and ensuring that the Blue Angels' message reaches a wide audience.
As the show begins, the ground crew remains vigilant. Maintenance personnel stand by, ready to address any technical issues that may arise. Public affairs officers capture the excitement of the event, sharing real-time updates on social media. The logisticians monitor the flow of the event, ensuring that everything runs smoothly.
After the final maneuver and the pilots’ signature walk-down, the ground crew’s work is far from over. Maintenance personnel perform post-flight inspections, identifying any wear and tear that needs attention. Logisticians begin planning for the next show, while public affairs officers gather feedback and prepare for upcoming engagements.
The 2024 show season kicks off with a joint training exchange between the Blue Angels and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. This collaboration will culminate in November, when the Pensacola community will be invited to witness this remarkable and rare spectacle at the Homecoming Air Show. The goal of this initiative is to share best practices and enhance team interoperability, significantly enriching the skills and performances of these distinguished groups.
Cmdr. Alex Armatas, the commanding officer and flight leader of the Blue Angels, shared his enthusiasm: "Each year, we eagerly anticipate our joint training sessions with the Thunderbirds. This year marks our 5th annual collaboration, which has been crucial for both teams to exchange insights and hone our abilities. The dedication of our Air Force counterparts to mastering the complex demands of nationwide flight demonstrations is truly inspiring."
This partnership underscores the shared dedication to excellence that defines both the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds. By combining their expertise, they aim to push the boundaries of precision flying and captivate global audiences with their stunning performances. Their last joint performance at the Point Mugu Air Show in California in March 2023 delighted fans and showcased the strong camaraderie between these elite teams.
The Pensacola Navy Blue Angels are more than just a team of elite pilots. They are a cohesive unit of professionals, each contributing their unique skills to create a seamless and awe-inspiring performance. The ground crew’s dedication, expertise, and hard work are the unsung elements that ensure the Blue Angels continue to inspire and amaze audiences around the world.
Highlighting these behind-the-scenes heroes deepens our appreciation for the teamwork and complexity that make the Blue Angels a world-renowned aerobatic team. Next time you enjoy their stunning performance, remember the ground crew—the real backbone of the team. Together with the pilots, they form an exceptional team that delivers spectacular performances.
Summary of the Blue Angels' weekly cycle:
The Blue Angels' rigorous year includes a winter training from mid-November to mid-March, and an eight-month airshow season that lasts until mid-November. Their weekly routine during the show season is tightly structured:
Tuesday: The week starts at NAS Pensacola with a practice flight over Forest Sherman Field, followed by squadron briefings and maintenance tasks.
Wednesday: The #7 pilot and crew chief head to the upcoming show location for pre-show activities, while the team practices back at Pensacola. The day concludes with fan interactions at the National Naval Aviation Museum and a debrief.
Thursday: Early morning, gear and luggage are loaded onto "Fat Albert," the team's C-130 transport, which heads to the show site. The demonstration pilots fly out later, arriving in time for local familiarization and practice flights.
Friday: The team engages with the local community through visits to schools and hospitals, followed by a special private show and a community social event.
Saturday: Show day features performances by Fat Albert, precise aircraft launches, and a mix of formations, culminating in a Delta formation. The day ends with autographs and maintenance debriefs.
Sunday: After the final local show, the team packs up and returns to Pensacola.
Monday: Those who traveled rest, while the remaining team members focus on aircraft maintenance and preparation for the next week.
The Pensacola Blue Angels boast a remarkable team of pilots leading their formation. Here's a brief look at the accomplished aviators at the helm:
CDR Alexander Armatas, Flight Leader / Commanding Officer: With over 4,100 flight hours and 911 carrier-arrested landings, Commander Armatas brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the Blue Angels.
LCDR Jack Keilty, Right Wing: Hailing from Oklahoma City, Lieutenant Commander Keilty has accumulated over 2,300 flight hours and 484 carrier-arrested landings.
LT Wes Perkins, Left Wing: Growing up in Georgetown, Texas, Lieutenant Perkins boasts over 1,400 flight hours and 205 carrier-arrested landings.
LCDR Amanda Lee, Slot: From Mounds View, Minnesota, Lieutenant Commander Lee has amassed over 1,800 flight hours and more than 225 carrier-arrested landings.
LCDR Griffin Stangel, Lead Solo: A native of Madison, Wisconsin, Lieutenant Commander Stangel has over 1,855 flight hours and more than 190 carrier-arrested landings.
CDR Thomas Zimmerman, Opposing Solo: From Baltimore, Maryland, Commander Zimmerman has over 3,100 flight hours and 542 carrier-arrested landings.
A Tribute to the Photographers Behind the Lens
Craig "R.J." Wood, Esq. started photographing the Blue Angels professionally in 2021, capturing their precision and grace during the airshow season. Often accompanied by fellow photography enthusiasts, R.J. has showcased Pensacola's hometown heroes both locally and internationally. His passion for the high-octane thrill of airshows shines through in his work, available for viewing and purchase on his Instagram @r.j.esq_photography.
Kyle Adams' fascination with military aviation began as a child in Virginia, near Naval Air Station Oceana. His first airshow experience, seeing the Blue Angels at age 7, left a lasting impression. Now living close to their base in Navarre, Florida, Kyle frequently photographs the team, continually thrilled by each performance. His greatest joy comes from connecting with other aviation enthusiasts. Kyle’s portfolio is available at www.JKAdams.art and Instagram @JKAdamsPhoto