UPDATE: A spectacular B-2 Spirit bomber flyover is set to captivate audiences at the Rose Parade in Pasadena on January 1, 2025. This highly coordinated aerial display, timed to coincide with the final note of the “Star-Spangled Banner,” is a hallmark of the New Year’s Day celebration, showcasing one of the U.S. military’s most advanced aircraft.
The mission, executed by airmen from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, requires precise timing and coordination through some of the busiest airspace in the nation. This year marks a significant milestone as it will be the first Rose Parade flyover under the leadership of Col. Joshua D. Wiitala, commander of the 509th Bomb Wing.
“This flyover is a chance to connect with the American public and to celebrate our accomplishments,” Wiitala stated. The 509th Bomb Wing has had a particularly busy year, including participation in a historic strike on nuclear facilities in Iran, the largest B-2 operational strike in U.S. history.
The flyover involves extensive planning, with airmen conducting maintenance checks and briefings to ensure everything runs smoothly. Pilots will wake up at approximately 2 a.m. Central Time to embark on a three-and-a-half-hour journey covering over 1,600 miles to arrive over Colorado Boulevard at precisely 8 a.m. This timing aligns with the commencement of the Rose Parade broadcast, a testament to the meticulous preparation that goes into this event.
The 509th Bomb Wing will perform two synchronized flyovers on New Year’s Day: one for the Rose Parade and another for the Rose Bowl, both timed to the national anthem. To achieve this, crews analyze the rhythm of the anthem’s singers, ensuring the B-2 arrives just as the final note is held—specifically timed to the word “brave.”
“This is more than just a ceremonial event; it provides valuable training for our pilots,” Wiitala explained. The mission fosters a connection between the Air Force and the local community, as the B-2 was originally built in Palmdale, California.
The tradition of the B-2 flyover has been a staple of the Rose Parade since the mid-1990s, with only a few interruptions. For Wiitala, it’s not just about the spectacle; it’s about bridging the gap between the Air Force and the American people. “Connecting the broader public to their airmen is the best part of it for me,” he added.
As the excitement builds for this year’s Rose Parade, viewers can expect an awe-inspiring display that highlights the capabilities of the U.S. Air Force and celebrates the dedication of the airmen who make such missions possible. Don’t miss this thrilling moment on New Year’s Day as the B-2 Spirit takes to the skies over Pasadena!
