Probably the most exciting part of The Thunderbirds' show is the solo planes - Thunderbird 5 and Thunderbird 6. These guys have to have nerves of steel. Or maybe they are just nuts. I'll let you be the judge.
This maneuver is called the Knife Edge Pass. Each plane is speeding toward the other one from opposite ends of the runway. As they meet, they turn the plane on its side and pass belly to belly. I didn't even realize that I had the second shot until I got home and downloaded. You cannot imagine my excitement!
This photograph was luck as well. They are passing each other as they head into matching loops. Awesome!
The Thunderbirds also have a sense of humor. Thunderbird 5 is the plane that is upside down in these shots. He flies upside down so much that his number is painted on the plane upside down, making it rightside up in shots like these. The number sewn on the pilot's flightsuit is also upside down. It is clearer in the second pic if you click on it to enlarge.
You knew I couldn't post this without a couple of pics with the vapor forming on the wings. Wow, I love this stuff!!
And seriously, could that flag have been in a better spot?!? :)
5 comments:
Wow! Incredible! You are right they have to have nerves of steel or they are nuts! :)
You have had some amazing pictures for us! I love them!
These pilots are just amazing...but so are your shots!
Wow Woody... This makes me want to go to another air show.... That last picture is fabulous--but then again, they all are.... Talk about nerves of steel!!!!! Those pilots are the BEST.... Thanks for sharing.
Hugs,
Betsy
Unbelievable!
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