Thunderbirds bring ultimate thrills to AirFest

TAMPA, Fla. - The MacDill AirFest air show is roaring its way into the Bay area, featuring some of the most advanced and sophisticated airplanes in the world -- like the F-22 and F-35, which are on ground display.

The show-stopper at every AirFest is the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. This is a team that formed back in 1953 and travels around to the different air shows across the country from March until November.

The group of F-16’s shows off the capabilities of the fighter for the crowds all while flying just a dozen or so inches apart from each other.

The most visible part are the hand full of fighters you see and hear. The team is made up of so much more. There are more than 100 members of the team that range from mechanics, flight surgeons and media relations.

That is why the team travels, to show what our Air Force can do and to inspire future airmen and women to a career in the U.S.A.F. It’s a way to showcase the different career opportunities as well as the teamwork and comradery.

AirFest is March 19 and 20 at MacDill Air Force Base. Gates open at 8 a.m. and close by 5 p.m.