UPDATE: The iconic B-2 Spirit bomber will soar over Pasadena, California, at precisely 8 a.m. PST on January 1, 2025, as part of the much-anticipated Rose Parade flyover. This year’s event is particularly significant, marking the first under the command of U.S. Air Force Col. Joshua D. Wiitala and capping one of the busiest operational years for the 509th Bomb Wing.
The mission, executed by airmen from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, showcases not only the precision of military aviation but also serves as a vital connection between the Air Force and the American public. “We’re really looking forward to this flyover as a chance to connect with the American public,” Col. Wiitala stated, highlighting the emotional significance of the event.
The B-2’s flyover is a meticulously coordinated operation that requires precise timing and navigation through some of the busiest airspace in the United States. The aircraft will take off around 2 a.m. CST from Whiteman, covering over 1,600 miles to reach Pasadena, aligning its arrival with the start of the national anthem.
“This is not just a ceremonial flyover; it’s also a critical training exercise for our pilots,” Wiitala explained. The B-2 will perform two separate flyovers: one for the Rose Parade and another for the Rose Bowl, necessitating the deployment of two bombers for flawless execution.
The 509th Bomb Wing has had a year marked by significant deployments, including a historic strike on nuclear facilities in Iran, underscoring the B-2’s role in global deterrence missions. “It has been a very busy and very consequential year for the 509th Bomb Wing,” Wiitala noted in a recent interview, emphasizing the pride felt by the entire team.
With this flyover, the Air Force aims to reinforce its community ties, showcasing the B-2 to the very people who built and maintain it at Northrop Grumman’s Palmdale facility. “We love that connection with the local community here in the B-2 community,” Wiitala added.
As millions prepare to witness the flyover, detailed planning has gone into ensuring the aircraft appears overhead at the right moment. Timing is critical, with the B-2 scheduled to arrive within seconds of the end of the national anthem. Crews have analyzed the performance of the anthem’s singers to synchronize the bomber’s arrival perfectly.
This annual tradition, which has continued since the mid-1990s, serves not only as a display of military might but as an opportunity for the U.S. Air Force to connect with civilians. Col. Wiitala, who has long admired the parade from afar, is eager to participate in this spectacle for the first time as wing commander.
As preparations unfold, the excitement builds for both the airmen involved and the spectators who will line Colorado Boulevard to witness this extraordinary display of aviation excellence. Stay tuned for live updates as this historic flyover approaches!
