Blue Angels
If the sight of jets thundering through the skies at 600 mph while performing intricate aerial maneuvers in tight formation quickens your pulse, chances are you’re witnessing one of the most spectacular feats of flying ever staged.
You’re watching the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.
A Blue Angels air show features perfectly timed, perfectly choreographed precision flying, such as the Four-Plane Diamond Formation. This magnificent event is accented with two solo pilots in stunning aerial acrobatics. A solo vertical roll can reach as high as 15,000 feet. In the Sneak pass, the pilot streaks by at just 50 feet above the ground. But the pinnacle of precision flying comes when the Blue Angels perform the intricate maneuvers of the renowned Six-Jet Delta Formation while locked together as one beautifully functioning unit.
True it takes years of training, but teamwork is the key.
What does it take to be a Blue Angel? Each year, a total of 16 officers volunteer, three tactical pilots, two support officers and one Marine pilot are selected to relieve departing members. The Blue Angels Commanding Officer, the Boss must have at least 3,000 tactical jet-fighting hours and experience commanding a squadron. Other members must have a minimum of 1,250 tactical jet-fighter hours. The team trains and performs together for maximum precision and safety.
The Blue Angels rely on safety and teamwork for every demonstration. Safety is just as important to you and it also depends on teamwork. Whether you’re flying in formation or operating a forklift, safety is no accident-it requires skill and training and cooperation.
*Look out for the other guy or gal. Always stay aware of who’s working around you and what they’re doing. If you see a coworker attempting an unsafe act, say something.
*Offer help when you can. Lending a hand makes the work easier and safer, so help others whenever possible. For safety’s sake, ask for help when you need it, too.
*Stay cool. Frustrations can arise when working with others, but don’t let anger prod you into doing something dangerous. Remember, you’re a professional. What would happen if one of the Blue Angels lost his cool? The consequences for you can be just as deadly.
The Blue Angels perform nearly 70 air shows at 34 locations to the delight of more than 17 million amazed spectators. Since they started in 1946, that’s more than 381 million fans. When you work safely every day, you come home to the most important fans of all-your family.
TEAMWORK
SAFETY Is No Accident
Copyright 2006 Harkins Safety B-177
