UPDATE: The iconic B-2 Spirit bomber is set to make a spectacular flyover at the 2025 Rose Parade in Pasadena on January 1. This highly anticipated event will coincide with the start of the parade, showcasing one of the U.S. military’s most advanced aircraft to millions of spectators both in-person and via national broadcast.
The flyover, executed by airmen from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, requires meticulous timing and coordination. Pilots are scheduled to take off around 2 a.m. Central Time, covering over 1,600 miles to reach Pasadena precisely at 8 a.m. This year marks the first Rose Parade flyover under the leadership of Col. Joshua D. Wiitala, the new commander of the 509th Bomb Wing.
With over 4,000 airmen involved in the mission, Wiitala emphasized the collaborative effort behind this operation. “We’re very proud of our team,” he stated, highlighting the diverse roles from pilots to support personnel that make the flyover a reality. This event represents a critical moment for the Air Force, as it connects their global missions to local communities in Southern California, where the B-2 bombers are both built and maintained.
Timing is crucial; the aircraft must arrive above Colorado Boulevard within seconds of the national anthem’s final note. “We actually time national anthem singers,” Wiitala explained, detailing how they calculate the precise timing needed to align the flyover with the end of the song. This year’s performance will see the flyover occur twice—first for the Rose Parade and then again for the Rose Bowl, which follows the parade.
The Rose Parade flyover is not just a ceremonial display; it also serves as a training exercise for the bomber pilots. “These are very valuable training events for us,” Wiitala noted, reinforcing the dual purpose of showcasing military capabilities and honing essential flying skills.
Attending the Rose Parade holds special significance for Wiitala, who has long admired the tradition from afar. “I’ve been to Pasadena a handful of times in college,” he shared, expressing excitement about finally participating in the event.
The B-2 flyover has been a staple of the Rose Parade since the mid-1990s, captivating audiences with its technological prowess. Despite interruptions due to COVID-19 and safety reviews, the bomber’s presence has become a beloved tradition, underscoring the connection between the military and the American public.
As the countdown to January 1 begins, the anticipation builds for this extraordinary display of aviation and community pride. Make sure to tune in for this breathtaking moment as history takes to the skies over Pasadena!
