The U.S. Air Force Reserve’s 419th Fighter Wing and Team Hill will conduct a statewide flyover this Fourth of July to celebrate the Freedom 250 anniversary. For a portion of the route, the Utah Air National Guard's 151st Wing will join the formation.
Flyover flight path details
The special flight path is designed to include an unprecedented number of cities that requested flyover support for the quarter-millennium milestone. The aircraft are expected to fly over various Utah communities between approximately 8:00 a.m. and 11:45 a.m.
Aircraft types and formation details
The formation will feature F-35A Lightning II aircraft from the 419th Fighter Wing, with a KC-135R Stratotanker from the 151st Wing integrating into the flight path for select communities. This collaboration is intended to showcase the coordination between Utah's Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard components.
Flight planning and route priorities
Planners developed a continuous, route-based flight plan to ensure all approved locations are reached safely and efficiently. Because of the high number of requests, the plan prioritizes reaching requested locations rather than meeting precise individual time-on-target requests.
Commander's remarks on the event
Col. Bradley Klemesrud, 419th Fighter Wing Commander, stated that the flyover is a proud tradition and an opportunity to connect with Utah communities during this historic milestone. He noted excitement regarding the partnership with the 151st Wing.
Training purpose and public information
The flyover is conducted as part of routine training at no additional cost to taxpayers, providing aircrew with experience in navigation and coordination. A statewide route map with estimated timing windows will be released before July 4 on the Hill Air Force Base website and official social media platforms.
