SALT LAKE CITY – The roaring sound of fighter jets is familiar on Independence Day, but the skies will stay silent Thursday as Hill Air Force Base has canceled their traditional flyovers.
Officials said the cancellations are due to sequestration, which is a series of federal budget cuts.
Col. Lance Landrum is the commander of the 388th Fighter Wing, and he released a statement on the issue, which said in part:
“The deep budget cuts have already grounded half our pilots and aircraft. We have no choice but to prioritize the little flying hours we’ve been allocated toward maximizing combat readiness.”
Hill Air Force Base’s F-16s have flown over local parades and other events across the Wasatch Front for more than 20 years. Base officials said they look forward to continuing the tradition in the future.
The full press release can be read here: Hill Air Force Base cancels flyovers
