AIR TATTOO QUESTION TIME WITH RAPTOR PILOT
Pilot of the F-22A Raptor, Major Dave 'Zeke' Skalicky talks to the Air Tattoo about his forthcoming display at the Royal International Air Tattoo 2010.
Have you been to the Air Tattoo before (if so when and what did you think)? If not, have you heard of it (if so, what have you heard?)
I've heard of RIAT but this will be my first time. (first time in the UK, actually) I've heard nothing but great things about RIAT and I certainly hope we help add to the excitement this year.
With the F-22 having been unable to display in public back in 2008 when the Air Tattoo had to cancel because of flooding, the audience at RAF Fairford is very keen to see this wonderful aircraft. Can you give us a taste of what they can they expect when you fly your display in July?
First, the audience will see a very impressive ground display by my professional maintenance personnel as they prepare the aircraft for flight. My team chief will narrate the display and describe each maneuver I perform in detail. From the moment I release the breaks it's going to be an edge-of-your-seat, heart-pounding display of the F-22's maneuvering capability. Unfortunately we can't show everything that makes the F-22 the most capable fighter aircraft in the world today but I can guarantee you won't be disappointed when you leave.
What preparations do you need to go through before a display?
The team gathers together about 90 minutes before each demonstration and we brief the entire sortie in great detail. From the maintenance actions at engine start, music, narration, individual maneuvers, to the actions at engine shut-down, everything is discussed and rehearsed in painstaking detail to ensure the most professional display of a single aircraft that anyone's ever seen.
How do you unwind after a display?
We gather the team together and debrief of everything that occurred from start to finish. Anything we can improve for next time, we highlight and come up with a solution for how to perform better. By thoroughly debriefing everything that occurred I find I can put my mind at rest about the whole experience because there's no questions left unanswered. Otherwise, I'll sometimes have to go for a good workout or long jog to clear my mind later.
Have you visited the UK before? If so when and what did you do?
I've never been to the UK before but I can't wait to come over there. I can't wait to learn more about the culture and most of all the history. In US history, something from the 1800's is considered old. That's not necessarily the case in the UK. I hope I get the chance to tour around a little while I'm there. It's funny, but I'm trying to get an exchange assignment to attend the UK Air Command and Staff College. The UK and US militaries have such a strong and rich history together, I'd love the chance to study, train, and work alongside my RAF counterparts.
What are you most looking forward to when you come over in July?
Putting on a safe and awe-inspiring demonstration of the world's most advanced and capable fighter aircraft for everyone who comes to RIAT! Can't wait!
The F-22A Aerial Demonstration Team will be arriving at RAF Fairford on the morning of Thursday 15 July in preparation for the Air Tattoo and Major Dave 'Zeke' Skalicky will be performing the rehearsal of his display on the same day.
