USAF plans to show off their arsenal at Wanaka this year.
Warbirds Over Wanaka revealed the United States Air Force will showcase the F-16 fighter jet and C-17 at their Easter airshow, highlighting aviation evolution and offering insight into armed forces careers. The F-16's agility and speed, along with the C-17's impressive size, will be key attractions.
A USAF F-16 taking off | Photo by Força Aérea Brasileira
This morning, Wednesday 7th Feb, Warbirds Over Wanaka confirmed the United States Air Force is going to be attending the airshow this Easter with both the F-16 fighter jet and C-17 demonstration teams heading south. General Manager of Warbirds Over Wanaka, Ed Taylor said having the support of other partner air forces, is an integral part of New Zealand’s largest airshow. “Our airshow is proud to have aircraft from the 1920s right through to today – it shows how technology has evolved over the years. It’s also a great chance for visitors to find out about careers in the armed forces.”
The F-16 Fighting Falcon team is based at Misawa in Japan with the jets being escorted to New Zealand by a KC-10 Extender tanker aircraft which will provide air-to-air refuelling.
A USAF F-16 conducting aerial refuelling | Photo by Força Aérea Brasileira
The F-16 Fighting Falcon is a highly advanced American multirole fighter jet that can fly at supersonic speeds. It was originally designed by General Dynamics and first took flight in 1974. This air superiority fighter has been incredibly successful and is still being produced today.
After 50 years, the jet model is still thriving and what could be a better way to celebrate than an impressive "fast and furious" performance at Warbirds Over Wanaka? “The F-16 is such an iconic Warbird and not just because it can reach Mach 2 (2,000+ kph). The aircraft first flew in 1974 and is still being manufactured today - 50 years later,” Ed stated. “The F-16 is relatively small and light giving it amazing manoeuvrability – perfect for showing off in front of a big crowd.” The aircraft will be based at Christchurch International Airport during the airshow.
The F-16 was previously displayed at Warbirds Over Wanaka in 2018. Thousands of aviation enthusiasts flocked to Wanaka to witness the jet with over 54,000 attendees.
A USAF C-17 preparing for takeoff at Edwards AFB | Photo by Bill Word
Alongside the F-16, the United States Air Force is also set to display at the airshow in Easter. The C-17 will be attending the airshow from its base in Hawaii. While it’s not so small and fast but is equally impressive is the huge C-17 Globemaster III which is set to fill the sky above Wanaka during the airshow.