WWII plane flyover postponed

Ginter is responsible for leading the coordination of dozens of military aircraft. Before Thursday’s dress rehearsal, pilots studied printed schedules, which specified their movements to the second.

Ginter said flying in formation doesn’t just look good in an airshow.

“Formation flying is a military necessity, when you’re flying an air combat patrol, it’s good to have a wingman, to watch your 6 o’clock, so a bandit doesn’t jump him,” Ginter said. “That’s really the idea of a formation — it’s mutual support.”

The airspace over the nation’s capital is highly restricted — while commercial pilots takeoff and land at Ronald Reagan National Airport, general aviation pilots know to not fly anywhere near downtown.

“It’s awe-inspiring when you fly down the Potomac River and approach Georgetown. You see the high-rises of Rosslyn to the right, and it’s impossible to miss the beautiful National Mall, you see the Lincoln Memorial.”

The flight route is both easy to follow and symbolic, Ginter said.

“The Lincoln Memorial is our turn point, we turn onto Independence Avenue at the Lincoln Memorial, wings level, right past the Washington Monument, and it’s a beautiful sight. And it’s one we don’t get to see, as pilots,” he said.

“The 75th anniversary of World War II is worth remembering,” Ginter said. “These airplanes tell the story of World War II and help Americans remember the sacrifices, from those who worked at home and those who served overseas.”

While the sight of precise choreography of military aircraft is enjoyable to watch, Ginter hoped the focus will remain on the fight for democracy.

“That’s worth America remembering. I mean, with what’s going on today, that’s a good thing. And our World War II veterans who fought for that freedom, that’s worth remembering.”