Sunday 7 October 2012

Flyby

It's Fleet Week in San Francisco, where warships fill the harbour and jets scream across the sky.  It is somewhat unnerving when your bus is buzzed by a supersonic bomber but we kept our heads down and made it to the Bay where the action was happening.  Last year we stood among the crowds, but this time Hannah managed to nab some Chevron corporate hospitality tickets - free food and a seat!

We were joined by the Schwimmers, and cheered and clapped all the aerobatic antics.  Several crazy biplanes flew between the yacht masts, a very eerie B2 bomber came stealthily by, and then a 747 flew in over the Golden Gate Bridge.  That was a little terrifying, but probably worse for all the passengers on board...


HMCS Edmonton.  They seemed to have more Canadian than American ships there - let's hope no one invades Canada this weekend!


Me and Evan, taking full advantage of the freebies.


A sea rescue display!  Except that the rescuee was wearing flippers, so obviously prepared.  Fake!


Alien invasion?  No, B2 Bomber.


Stealth plane vs. balloon.


Corporate hospitality, not as exclusive as I like, but it'll do.


An Osprey over the bridge.


The first of the crazy stunt pilots.


A certain insurance company took advantage.


Pull up!  Pull up!


I think this is an F-22.  Whatever, it was loud.


That F-22, an F-18 (?) and something older.  Disappointing that these new jets can't keep up with a propeller plane.


Serious lens envy.


The Patriots, billed as "your local aerobatic jet team".


Almost breaking the speed of sound.


"The captain has illuminated the fasten seat belt sign."


"Cabin crew doors to manual and cross check."


"We have begun our final descent into Alcatraz."  (Now that would be a prison break).