Blue Angels Soar Over El Centro for Training

The U.S. Navy's elite flight demonstration team practices for their 2026 airshow season.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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On Thursday, February 26, 2026, the U.S. Navy's precision flight team, the Blue Angels, conducted training flights over Naval Air Facility El Centro in El Centro, California. Aviation fans gathered outside the base to watch the Blue Angels take off and perform their signature aerial maneuvers in preparation for their 2026 airshow season.

Why it matters

The Blue Angels are one of the most renowned military flight demonstration teams in the world, showcasing the skill and precision of U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aviators. Their annual airshow performances are highly anticipated events that draw large crowds and boost local economies. The training flights in El Centro allow the team to hone their skills before the start of the airshow season.

The details

During the training session, the Blue Angels flew in their signature diamond formation and performed various aerobatic maneuvers, including tight turns, loops, and high-speed passes. The team's F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets roared over the desert landscape, delighting the aviation enthusiasts who gathered to watch the practice session.

  • On Thursday, February 26, 2026, the Blue Angels conducted their training flights over Naval Air Facility El Centro.
  • The training session took place in preparation for the Blue Angels' 2026 airshow season.

The players

U.S. Navy's Blue Angels

The Blue Angels are the U.S. Navy's elite flight demonstration team, showcasing the skills and precision of Navy and Marine Corps aviators through their annual airshow performances.

Naval Air Facility El Centro

Located in El Centro, California, Naval Air Facility El Centro is a U.S. Navy installation that serves as a training ground for the Blue Angels and other military aviation units.

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What they’re saying

“The Blue Angels' training flights are always a highlight for aviation enthusiasts in the region. It's amazing to see the team's precision and skill up close.”

— John Kelley, Local resident (San Diego Union-Tribune)

What’s next

The Blue Angels will continue their training flights at Naval Air Facility El Centro in the coming weeks as they prepare for their 2026 airshow season, which is scheduled to kick off in the spring.

The takeaway

The Blue Angels' annual training flights in El Centro are a testament to the skill and dedication of the U.S. Navy's top aviators. These practice sessions help ensure the team is ready to dazzle audiences with their world-class aerial performances throughout the upcoming airshow season.