A unique aerial demonstration is coming to SUN ‘n FUN on April 13, 2024. In Lakeland, Florida, the Polaris Program Ghost Squadron will be flying in the evening airshow with a mission to “inspire the next generation of aerospace enthusiasts and raise funds and awareness” for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The demonstration team consists of four L-39 jets, three Alpha Jets, and one MiG-29.
SUN ‘n FUN is among the largest fly-in aviation events in the world and is described as the “Spring Break for Pilots.” The event lasts an entire week, starting on April 8th, and features many unique aircraft parked around Lakeland Linder International Airport along with hundreds of vendors showing off their aviation products and services. Starting on Tuesday, April 9th, the airshows begin with a variety of propeller and jet planes performing. Some of the performers include the F-35A demo team, B-25 Panchito, various warbirds, and the Air Force Thunderbirds. You can get the current schedule for the airshows by visiting SUN ‘n FUNs website.
Join our Discord Server: Join the community with forums and chatrooms about space!
Ghost Squadron – Polaris Program
One of the more unique demonstrations coming to SUN ‘n FUN this year is the Polaris Program’s Ghost Squadron team. Consisting of a MiG-29, three Alpha Jets, and four L-39 jets, the Ghost Squadron’s mission is to “demonstrate precision formation flying with the aim to inspire the next generation of aerospace enthusiasts and raise funds and awareness” for their partner, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The MiG-29 flying as part of the Ghost Squadron is owned by Jared Issacman, the mission commander for Polaris Dawn and previous Dragon-flyer on the Inspiration4 mission, and is one of the only privately owned and operated MiG-29s.
Following their SUN ‘n FUN performances, the Ghost Squadron will continue on to perform at the following airshows around the country:
- MAY 11-12: AIR DOT SHOW FORT LAUDERDALE
- JULY 22-24: EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH
- AUGUST 14: ATLANTIC CITY AIRSHOW
- SEPTEMBER 21-22: NAS OCEANA AIR SHOW
- OCTOBER 26-27: WINGS OVER HOUSTON AIRSHOW
Stay tuned to our socials as we bring coverage from the April 13th performances at SUN ‘n FUN, including the Ghost Squadron.
