Navy says Blue Angels back for Seafair 2014

The Blue Angels plan to be back for Seafair 2014.

The U.S. Navy flight demonstration squad announced Monday it would return to its full schedule next year. This year’s performance at Seafair was cancelled because of $85 billion in cuts for the remainder of fiscal year. The cuts were mandated by a 2011 congressional agreement.

“Community outreach is key to connecting Americans to the military,” Blue Angels Commanding Officer and Flight Leader, Cmdr. Thomas Frosch said Monday in a statement. “Our performances provide a unique opportunity to inspire millions to connect with and support our service members, and we are looking forward to an exciting 2014 season.”

The Blue Angels first announced its show schedule for the 2014 season at the annual International Council of Airshows convention on Dec. 11, 2012. Seafair was aware of the plan, but was waiting to see what would happen with ongoing federal budget problems.

“As Congress is still negotiating appropriations for 2014, Seafair remains cautiously optimistic the Blue Angels and Fleet Week will be part of its 65th Anniversary celebration next year,” spokeswoman Melissa Jurcan said Monday evening.

Following winter training, the team begins the season March 15 at Naval Air Facility in El Centro, Calif., and will conclude the season Nov. 8 at Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Fla.

The Blue Angels are scheduled to perform 65 shows at 34 locations throughout the U.S. in 2014.

Follow this link to see images of the Blues from the 2012 Seafair. Click here to see the Blue Angels' 2014 air show season schedule.

The Patriots Jet Team, using L-39s, performed at Seafair this year in place of the Blue Angels and are also scheduled for Seafair 2014. Click here to watch a practice run by the Patriots with a cockpit camera.

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