The USAF Thunderbirds fly the General Dynamics F-16A 'Fight Falcon'. ND Centennial Air Show over the old Hector Airport terminal, Sunday 8/20/1989.
Photo by Bob Nelson.
"The Diamond, formation involves the first four aircraft flying together, approximately 18 inches apart, highlighting the training and precision of Air Force Airmen. The Delta formation involves all six aircraft flying together in perfect synchronization and takes place toward the end of the demonstration. Each Thunderbird pilot is selected from a group of fully qualified and skilled Air Force fighter pilots and serves a two-year tour with the demonstration team. From mid-November until mid-March the Thunderbirds go through a training season to integrate new pilots with veteran demonstration pilots as they prepare for the upcoming show season." -afthunderbirds.com