F-22 demo pilot practices at Tyndall

by Ashley M. Wright
325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

1/27/2014 - TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla.  -- While snow fell on the F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team's headquarters at Langley Air Force Base, Va., the team's pilot took to the skies over the Florida panhandle to practice the routine for the upcoming air show season.

"I love flying here," said Capt. John Cummings, F-22 Demonstration pilot who was stationed at Tyndall for F-15 Eagle and F-22 pilot training. "This is where I learned to fly fighter aircraft."

While Cummings will do most of his training at Langley, Air Force Instructions require him to make three off-station practice flights of the routine before performing at an air show.

The flights took place on Jan. 22 and 23. The aircraft was part of the 43rd Fighter Squadron here, which is responsible for training pilots on the F-22.

"The 43rd FS provided the jets for the practice," said Capt. Daniel Dickinson, 43rdFS F-22 instructor and Bravo Flight commander. "We were glad to help out in any way we could."

The F-22 team consists of 11 Airmen that work a regular job during the week and air shows on the weekends. However, there is no dedicated F-22 that follows the crew to the air shows. As the Air Force continues to face significant fiscal constraints; everything that can be done to trim costs is being done. Because of this, the aircraft comes from the closest F-22 base, Cummings said.

"The entire Raptor Nation supports the demo," the Wisconsin native said.

However, aerial acrobatics in the world's most advanced operational fighter jet is not where the captain will spend a majority of his time.

"Twenty percent of the job is flying," said Cummings, who has been the demonstration pilot for two months. "The cool part will be going out into the community."

Along with performing air shows around the country, the team also visits local hospitals, schools and works with organizations like the Make-a-Wish Foundation and Wounded Warrior Project.

While Cummings continues to settle into his new role, he remains optimistic about the responsibility of showcasing the Air Force's premier fighter.

"I'm looking forward to the great opportunity to demonstrate what we do," he said.