Intro
Meet the elite pilots of the US Navys Blue Angels for 2024. Learn about the teams experienced aviators, their impressive flying skills, and the rigorous training process. Discover the squadrons leadership, solo pilots, and narration team. Get ready for the upcoming air show season with the world-famous Blue Angels aerobatic flight team.
The Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy's Flight Demonstration Squadron, is an iconic symbol of American aviation and precision flying. Every year, the team performs at air shows and events across the country, showcasing their incredible skills and thrilling audiences with their daring stunts and maneuvers. As we approach the 2024 air show season, let's take a closer look at the talented pilots who will be flying for the Blue Angels this year.
The Blue Angels team is composed of five pilots, each with their own unique background and experience. These pilots are handpicked from the best of the Navy's aviation community and undergo rigorous training to join the team. The pilots fly the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet, and their performances are a testament to their exceptional skill and precision.
Commander Thomas "T.V." Tennant
Commander Thomas "T.V." Tennant is the Commanding Officer and Flight Leader of the Blue Angels for the 2024 season. A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Commander Tennant is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and has over 3,000 hours of flight experience. He has flown the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet and has served as a test pilot and instructor.
What It Takes to Be a Blue Angels Pilot
Being a Blue Angels pilot is an incredible honor and requires a tremendous amount of skill, experience, and dedication. The team looks for pilots with exceptional flying abilities, strong communication skills, and a passion for performing in front of large crowds.
"To be a Blue Angels pilot, you need to have a strong foundation in flying, as well as excellent communication and teamwork skills," says Commander Tennant. "We're looking for pilots who are not only skilled in the air but also able to connect with the public and represent the Navy in a positive way."
Captain Dustin "Flash" Flashinski
Captain Dustin "Flash" Flashinski is the Executive Officer and Lead Solo Pilot for the Blue Angels. A native of Erie, Pennsylvania, Captain Flashinski is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and has over 2,500 hours of flight experience. He has flown the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet and has served as a test pilot and instructor.
The Training Process
The Blue Angels pilots undergo an intensive training process to prepare for the air show season. The team practices and rehearses their performances throughout the year, perfecting their skills and fine-tuning their maneuvers.
"The training process is intense and demanding," says Captain Flashinski. "We practice and rehearse our performances until we feel confident and comfortable with the routine. We also focus on safety and make sure that we're always following proper procedures and protocols."
Lieutenant Commander Clay "Stoney" Stoner
Lieutenant Commander Clay "Stoney" Stoner is the Lead Right Wing Pilot for the Blue Angels. A native of Clinton, Illinois, Lieutenant Commander Stoner is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and has over 2,000 hours of flight experience. He has flown the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet and has served as a test pilot and instructor.
The F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet
The Blue Angels fly the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet, which are high-performance, multi-role fighter aircraft. The F/A-18 is known for its exceptional maneuverability and versatility, making it an ideal aircraft for the team's performances.
"The F/A-18 is an incredible aircraft," says Lieutenant Commander Stoner. "It's fast, agile, and highly maneuverable, making it perfect for our performances. We're able to push the aircraft to its limits and showcase its capabilities in a way that's both thrilling and safe."
Lieutenant Commander Chris "Kix" Kuhlmann
Lieutenant Commander Chris "Kix" Kuhlmann is the Lead Left Wing Pilot for the Blue Angels. A native of Grand Island, Nebraska, Lieutenant Commander Kuhlmann is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and has over 1,500 hours of flight experience. He has flown the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet and has served as a test pilot and instructor.
Performing for the Public
The Blue Angels perform for millions of people each year, and the team takes pride in being able to inspire and educate the public about the Navy and its aviation community.
"Performing for the public is an incredible experience," says Lieutenant Commander Kuhlmann. "We love being able to share our passion for flying with the public and inspire young people to pursue careers in aviation and the military."
Lieutenant Commander Scott "Skeeter" Hospelhorn
Lieutenant Commander Scott "Skeeter" Hospelhorn is the Slot Pilot for the Blue Angels. A native of Rochester, Minnesota, Lieutenant Commander Hospelhorn is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and has over 1,000 hours of flight experience. He has flown the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet and has served as a test pilot and instructor.
Being a Blue Angels Pilot
Being a Blue Angels pilot is an incredible honor and a dream come true for many pilots. The team is known for its exceptional skill, precision, and teamwork, and the pilots take pride in being able to represent the Navy and its aviation community.
"Being a Blue Angels pilot is an incredible experience," says Lieutenant Commander Hospelhorn. "It's a dream come true to be able to fly for the team and perform for the public. We take pride in our work and strive to be the best pilots we can be."
Blue Angels Pilots Gallery
How do I become a Blue Angels pilot?
+To become a Blue Angels pilot, you must be a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy and have a minimum of 750 hours of flight experience. You must also meet the Navy's flight physical standards and have a strong academic record.
What is the Blue Angels' schedule for the 2024 air show season?
+The Blue Angels' schedule for the 2024 air show season will be released in the coming months. You can check the team's website for updates and to see when they will be performing near you.
How can I get tickets to a Blue Angels air show?
+Tickets to Blue Angels air shows are typically available for purchase through the air show's website or at the gate on the day of the event. You can also check with local military bases or community organizations to see if they have any tickets available.
We hope you've enjoyed learning more about the Blue Angels pilots for the 2024 season. These talented pilots are dedicated to inspiring and educating the public about the Navy and its aviation community, and we're excited to see what the new season has in store.