NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. – The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron “Thunderbirds” will flyover Las Vegas in honor of front line COVID-19 responders during the afternoon of April 11, 202

The flyover is to show appreciation and support for the healthcare workers, first responders and other essential personnel in Las Vegas and around the nation who are working on the front lines to combat the coronavirus. The flyover will feature eight F-16 Fighting Falcons, soaring throughout Las Vegas starting at 2:30 PST and will last approximately 25 minutes.

“It is an honor to fly for the Americans at the forefront of our nation’s fight against the coronavirus,” said Lt. Col. John Caldwell, Thunderbirds commander and leader. “They are true heroes and we look forward to demonstrating the support of the 685,000 total force Airmen of the U.S. Air Force for healthcare workers, first responders and COVID-19 essential personnel in Las Vegas and across the nation.”

Las Vegas residents will be able to see the flyover from the safety of their home-quarantine and should maintain all social distancing guidelines during this event. They should also refrain from traveling to landmarks and gathering in large groups to view the flyover.

“While our jets will be flying close together, we want stress that no one should travel or gather to see us fly,” Caldwell said. “We want Las Vegas residents to look up from their homes and enjoy the display of American resolve and pride while keeping front line coronavirus responders in their hearts during this unprecedented time in our nation.”

The Thunderbirds’ flight path will start at Nellis Air Base and take them through Centennial Hills, Summerlin, Spring Valley, along the Las Vegas Strip, and down to Henderson before returning to Nellis Air Force Base. Residents along the flight path can expect a few seconds of jet noise as the aircraft pass overhead, along with the site of high-performance fighter aircraft flying close in precise formation.

The Thunderbirds welcome and encourage viewers to tag the team on social media in photos and videos of their formation with the hashtags #AFThunderbirds and #VegasGoesBlue.

For more information on the team visit www.afthunderbirds.com and follow @afthunderbirds on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.