FAA boss rides with Thunderbirds

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Pam Anderson
  • U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron Public Affairs
NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFNS) --  The head of the Federal Aviation Administration was given the opportunity to see the other side of flight safety when he flew with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds April 15.

Randy Babbitt, who is responsible for the safety of more than 30,000 aircraft and has accumulated more than 14,000 flying hours, got his first ride in a fighter jet.

"There are not enough words to describe it," he said. "I have a new appreciation for the fighter aircraft's capabilities and the people who work with them."

The U.S. military makes up a large percentage of the daily flights FAA representatives monitor. Mr. Babbitt's familiarization flight with the demonstration team gave him a more in-depth look at the safety preparations that go into a Thunderbird performance and the amount of interaction that is occurs between the Air Force and the FAA.

"Everything we do, from the beginning to the end of a flight, must be coordinated with the local authorities, so it's important for (Mr. Babbitt) to see how we interact with the civil and commercial air industry," said Lt. Col. Derek Routt, USAFADS operations officer and Thunderbirds No. 7, who flew Mr. Babbit in the red, white and blue F-16D Fighting Falcon.

During his flight, Mr. Babbitt experienced every maneuver flown during a Thunderbird air show performance. He also earned the coveted 9-G pin after experiencing 9G's.

"To show him our Air Force and to share our story with someone at his level was amazing," Colonel Routt said. "We have a common bond when it comes to commitment to safety, and I am honored that I was able to share this experience with Mr. Babbitt."

In addition to safety, FAA officials and the Thunderbirds also share the same goal of keeping the spirit of aviation alive.

"The Thunderbirds inspire so many young men and women," Mr. Babbitt said. "Through them, we hope to motivate the next generation of aviators."