The YSFlight Thunderbirds are comprised of eight members aiming to replicate the demonstration of pride and precision of the Air Forces premiere Air Demonstration Squadron in YSFlight. Each member has been interested in real life aviation careers with many hours of online simulator time undergo countless training and preparation sorties for each show season spanning from March to November. For more information on each team member for 2019, click here to navigate to the "Meet The Team" page:
The Team
Out of the main six pilots, there are four who make up the diamond formation and their maneuvers. From flying only feet by another aircraft to executing simultaneous aileron rolls in close formation, they apply the exceptional and precise handling characteristics of the F-16 by performing towering loops and rolls maintaining close proximity. Throughout the thirty minute performance, they hold the ballet-like element of the show. The diamond pilots showcase the end product that comes from dedication, precision flying, and commitment, aiming to perfect each maneuver they fly.
The Demo
- THE DIAMOND -
- The Solos -
Separated from the diamond for nearly half the demonstration, the solo pilots utilize their aircraft to perform maneuvers at the edge of their operating envelope. Unlike the diamond segments within the show, the solos possess more of a rock and roll element. They showcase what evolves from immense teamwork and professionalism, all while demonstrating the capabilities of the F-16 Fighting Falcon; an example of outstanding American quality aviation that has been the foundation of the United States Air Force since 1947.
- THE DELTA -
Combining the elements of both the diamond and the solos, the famous six-ship Thunderbird delta formation takes the stage as resemblance to the final part of the demonstration. Adding more amazement into the sunlit spectacle, the delta arcs through the sky reflecting months of training and preparation from each member, as they work together to perform such maneuvers swiftly and precisely.
The Sim
Developed by Soji Yamakawa back in 1999 and updated every year, YSFlight is a lightweight, online, and completely free flight simulator that serves as the base platform for the team's operations. It has earned the attention from many virtual and actual aviation enthusiasts who operate computers across the performance spectrum, all while building connections and virtual aviation communities in the United States, South Korea, Brazil, Canada, Japan, and Australia.
The biggest English speaking YSFlight Community is that of YSFlight HeadQuarters; a forum dedicated to serve as the main destination for flight sim users from around the world to communicate with one another. There, YS virtual events of all types are announced, aerobatic performances register, and sim addons are posted. Almost everything that you need for your YSFlight experience to grow lies free to download on YSFHQ. To visit YSFlight HeadQuarters, click here to navigate to their home page or click on the YSFHQ button on the bottom of our website's home page:
