Dayton, Ohio – If you like military aircraft and crews, the 2016 Vectren Dayton Air Show Presented by Kroger on June 18th and 19th at the Dayton International Airport will be the place to be. Air show officials announced today a huge addition to its lineup, the amazing U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor stealth tactical fighter demonstration team.
The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor is a fifth-generation single-seat, twin-engine, all-weather stealth tactical fighter. The Raptor’s combination of stealth, aerodynamic performance, and situational awareness gives the aircraft unprecedented air combat capabilities. The F-22 will perform an aerial demonstration both days of the show. The Raptor is one of the most sought-after demonstrations on the air show circuit. Its incredible maneuverability, aided by its computerized controls and powerful, thrust vectoring jet engines, make the Raptor demonstration unlike any other.
Dayton’s F-22 will be flown by Major Daniel “FFits” Dickinson from the 1st Fighter Wing, Langley AFB, VA. Major Dickinson was born in Little Rock, Arkansas and is a graduate of Clemson University. He is a seasoned fighter pilot with over 800 F-22 hours. The Raptor last appeared in Dayton in 2008.“We are absolutely ecstatic!” stated Michael Emoff, Chairman of the USATS Board of Trustees. “To have the world’s most advanced aircraft at our show is awesome. This will be one show people definitely won’t want to miss.” Emoff added.
The F-22 Raptor will join previously announced attractions the world-renowned U.S. Navy Blue Angels and TORA! TORA! TORA!, a dramatic recreation of the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. Air show officials have also announced that the event will include the U.S. Navy Leap Frogs Parachute Team, the Navy Band and awarding winning stunt pilots among other performances and static displays. 2016 marks the 42nd consecutive year for the air show, one of the largest in the nation and a premier event in the Miami Valley region.
2016 Vectren Dayton Air Show Presented by Kroger tickets are now on sale at the show’s website, www.daytonairshow.com. For the first time this year, customers will enjoy new print-at-home or print-to mobile options available for web site purchases. Beginning May 9th, 2016, customers can conveniently purchase discount general admission tickets at area Kroger stores. This Kroger exclusive offers $3.00 off adult and children tickets at over 100 Kroger stores in the Dayton-Cincinnati region. Kroger discount tickets are good for either Saturday or Sunday admission.
Feature Photo Credit (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Samuel Rogers)