Originally Posted by
bunk22
Flyovers don't cost extra money as long as it's done as part of training, at least down here in the training command. Rarely do we launch a flight that does include getting the "X" so taking them away, at least from our perspective, doesn't make or break anything.
With regards to the flight demo teams, it obviously cost money to maintain, practice, fly, etc but they do give back in a way. Pensacola stated they bring in $2.5 million in one day during the July Pensacola Beach Airshow. Good for the local economy.
I agree with you that the flyovers do not really cost anything but it is all perception. With the heads of every agency impacted by the sequester screaming that they can't do their jobs without the funds, the public sees the flyovers as a waste of money. The same for the demo teams even though they may bring in revenue to the local community.
However, the leader of this country, who should be setting the example, sees no problem with a trip to play golf with Tiger Woods and sending the First Lady to LA to award an Oscar and be on prime time television. It is all perception!!