The Thunderbirds' iconic six-aircraft delta formation will depart Nellis Air Force Base at 6:45 p.m.
LAS VEGAS – As part of Southern Nevada's ongoing America250 celebration, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) are partnering to present a special flyover across Las Vegas and Hoover Dam on Saturday, June 27, beginning at 6:45 p.m. The event will honor Southern Nevada's role in America's story and celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary.
The aerial tribute will feature the Thunderbirds' iconic six-aircraft delta formation, marking the first time since 2020 that the renowned formation has flown over Las Vegas. The delta consists of six red, white, and blue F-16 Fighting Falcons flying in close formation, showcasing the precision, discipline, and professionalism that have made the Thunderbirds one of the nation's most recognized aerial demonstration teams.
Known as "America's Team" and "America's Ambassadors in Blue," the Thunderbirds are conducting the flyover to honor their hometown and celebrate Southern Nevada's role in the nation's history.
The route will include several landmarks and neighborhoods spanning the Las Vegas Valley, culminating with a flight over Hoover Dam, where a 45,000-square-foot American flag and nightly patriotic lighting display continue through July 4.
The Thunderbirds officially moved to their current headquarters at Nellis Air Force Base on June 1, 1956. Originally activated on June 1, 1953, at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, the team has represented Las Vegas and Southern Nevada on the national and international stage for seven decades.
"Las Vegas is a city built on bringing people together for extraordinary experiences," said Steve Hill, President and CEO of the LVCVA. "The Thunderbirds are part of our community's story, and their hometown flyover will create an unforgettable moment as we continue celebrating America's 250th anniversary throughout Southern Nevada."
"It’s an incredible honor for the Thunderbirds to fly over our hometown this weekend,” said Lt. Col. Alexander Prevendar, Thunderbird 1, Commander/Leader. “As America marks 250 years, we’re proud to celebrate alongside our community and reflect on the freedom, service, and unity that define who we are as a nation."
Today, the Thunderbirds are an elite 135-member team representing 31 different career fields. Flying more than 30 demonstrations annually, the squadron showcases the precision, professionalism, and global readiness of the U.S. Air Force while inspiring future generations of aviators, engineers, and service members.
The Thunderbirds’ June 27 flyover is one component of a broader summer-long program that includes patriotic activations, special events, and one of the nation's largest summer fireworks series, taking place every Saturday night through July 25.
The Thunderbirds' flight path and timing will be released later this week.
