Sequestration measures cancel Thunderbirds appearances
Nellis Air Force Base, NV (KTNV) -- In response to sequestration actions, the Air Force and Air Combat Command officials have canceled aerial demonstration team performances to include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds beginning April 1.
The decision enables ACC to reallocate flying hours to combat readiness training, which will enable more sorties for combat readiness and deployment commitments.
The Thunderbirds were scheduled to perform more than 60 demonstrations at 38 locations between March and November, demonstrating the capabilities of Airmen and supporting Air Force recruiting efforts.
Lieutenant Col. Greg Moseley said the squadron's mission will continue, even though the 130 person team will not be traveling after March.
"Sequestration temporarily limits our ability to travel, but it doesn't stop us from reaching out within our community to tell the Air Force story," said Moseley.
Details about when the team will resume performances after April 1 are unclear.
In the meantime, pilots will take every opportunity to train in an effort to maintain their proficiency within the limits of sequestration.
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