Simple Flying - military

5 Cool Nicknames For Military Aircraft & How They Got Them

Joshua Kupietzky — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 00:45:12 GMT

Over the years, many fighter jets have been built for various military and government purposes. Although fighter jets have tail and flight numbers for identification purposes, some of these jets have nicknames associated with the aircraft type. These nicknames are given for memorable reasons, specific nuances, or local cultures. Let's look at five cool nicknames for fighter jets and their backstory.

Which North American Airlines Offer Military Discount Flight Fares?

Joe Kunzler — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 21:45:12 GMT

Below is a guide to Canada and US airlines that offer US military discount fares and more as of late January 2024. As always, one should check the preferred airline website for the latest discounts and policies prior to booking as airline policies can change with little to no notice.

British Biplane: The Story Of The Sopwith Camel

Alexander Mitchell — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 20:45:12 GMT

The Sopwith Camel was undeniably one of the most recognizable aircraft of the First World War. The biplane fighter entered service with the Royal Air Force in June 1917, and would not retire until January 1920.

Are Military Aircraft Subjected To Airworthiness Directives Like Airliners?

Rytis Beresnevičius — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 19:45:12 GMT

Airworthiness Directives (ADs) have one goal: to ensure safety within the realms of aviation. Regulators across the globe, whether it would be the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), continuously issue directives to address various safety concerns as manufacturers and operators discover multiple issues of varying severity on commercial aircraft.

Wooden Wonder: The Story Of The De Havilland DH.98 'Mosquito'

Mark Finlay — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 16:45:12 GMT

While the Supermarine Spitfire and the Hawker Hurricane are likely better known, the de Havilland Mosquito may just be the aircraft that best epitomizes the Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II. While the Nazi war machine rapidly built up in Germany, the British Air Ministry was seeking out a short to medium-range bomber to counter the growing threat.

Aircraft Carrier Takeoffs & Landings: 5 Fun Facts

Dr. Omar Memon — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 13:45:12 GMT

Operating a fighter aircraft on an aircraft carrier is a challenging feat. Unlike traditional land runway operations, aircraft carrier takeoff and landings require precise training, skills, and planning from the pilot's side and the ground support personnel.

How Did The F-16 Viper Get Its Nickname?

Dr. Omar Memon — Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:45:12 GMT

The General Dynamics (later Lockheed Martin) F-16 is one of the highest-selling military aircraft in the world. At the time of its inception, it was faced with criticism that it would not be due to its small and less powerful design. However, the aircraft beat all odds and went on to have the longest production run from 1973 to the present.

A Complete History Of The B-52 Bomber In The US Air Force

Alexander Mitchell — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 14:45:12 GMT

The backbone of the United States Air Force's long-range intercontinental strategic bombing force is undoubtedly the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress. In service since 1955, the eight-engine heavy bomber has flown actively throughout the Cold War and multiple Middle Eastern conflicts and remains in the skies today.

How Did The Variants Of The French Dassault Mystere Fighter Bomber Differ From Each Other?

Joe Kunzler — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 13:45:12 GMT

The French Dassault MD 452 Mystere was a product of the 1950s, flown only by the French Air Force, and never saw combat. But the Mystere kept being improved throughout its life, from 1951-1963.

Why Is The F-16 Fighter Jet Still So Popular After 50 Years?

Nicole Kylie — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 11:45:12 GMT

This year, the F-16 Falcon celebrates half a century of service, having flown for the first time in 1974. In the 50 years since, its popularity remains – enduring technological advancements and global changes in the military landscape. To this date, this iconic aircraft, produced by Lockheed Martin (then General Dynamics), continues to be a linchpin in the global fighter jet stage – but why?