Air National Guard jets to conduct night flights over two weeks

March 18, 2022  |  By Waterbury Roundabout 

An F-35A Lightning II pilot assigned to the 134th Fighter Squadron, Vermont Air National Guard, prepares for launch during routine flying operations at the Vermont Air National Guard base at Burlington International Airport. 2020 U.S. Air National Guard file photo by A1C Jana Somero

SOUTH BURLINGTON – The Vermont Air National Guard announced this week that it will conduct night flights for several days over the next two weeks. 

Flights will occur Tuesday through Friday, March 22-25, and again March 29 through April 1. 

For each week, there are two anticipated takeoff periods: the first between 3 and 5 p.m. with landings scheduled 5-7 p.m.; the second takeoff period is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. with landings 8-10 p.m., according to the Vermont Air National Guard announcement. 

There are no scheduled morning flights during these periods. 

“Nighttime air operations present unique challenges that require the women and men of the 158th Fighter Wing to train a little later in the evening on occasion,” said Col. Michael Blair, 158th Operations Group commander.

The combat-ready 158th Fighter Wing conducts night operations to meet U.S. Air Force and Major Command requirements and proficiencies.

More information on the F-35 program including a public comment form is online at vtguard.com/f35.