173rd Fighter Wing will conduct night flying operations

  • Published
The 173rd Fighter Wing will conduct night flying operations June 16 and 17 approximately 9 p.m. through 11:30 p.m. 

 

Night flying is one part of the course curriculum for F-15 student pilots at Kingsley Field.

 

"Night flying is a critical skill which our students need to learn to be effective war fighters," said Col. Jeremy Baenen, 173rd Fighter Wing Commander.  "We understand the disruption to the community during night flying weeks, but we try our best to minimize the noise impact." 

 

Most of the training will occur in the military operating airspace to the east of Lakeview, where the pilots can fly without any lights.  However the community will most likely hear the jets during take-offs and approaches to and from Kingsley Field.  Takes-off will occur after sundown and the jets will return approximately one-and-one-half hours later.

 

"On their first night rides, students learn basic formation, air refueling, and basic intercepts," said Lt. Col. Jeffrey Edwards, 114th Fighter Squadron Commander.  "After they master these basic skills, students progress to fly as the wingman in a realistic tactical intercept scenario."

 

Student pilots are also trained to use Night Vision Goggles.  "This training, increases their situational awareness and combat capability," added Edwards.

 

Community members may contact the Wing's Public Affairs office at 541-885-6677 to express any concerns they have during this time.