US Air Force Thunderbirds Display Team Kickstart 2023 Winter Training in New Mexico

The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" aerobatic display team held their inaugural winter training trip in January 2023, at Spaceport America in New Mexico. 2023 marks the team's 70th anniversary and this trip allows them to put to use, seven decades of airshow experience and best practices in preparation for the upcoming season. During the year the Thunderbirds and their F-16 Fighting Falcon's will appear at various airshows and events - wowing audiences with some of the spectacular stunts seen being perfected here. The Thunderbirds squadron is an Air Combat Command unit composed of eight pilots (including six demonstration pilots) as well as support staff. They perform a a mix of formation flying and solo routines. The four-aircraft diamond formation demonstrates the training and precision of Air Force pilots, while the solo aircraft highlight the maximum capabilities of the F-16. The pilots perform approximately 30 maneuvers in a demonstration. Their season lasts from March to November, with the winter months used to train new members.