RETURNING IN STYLE F-15E STRIKE EAGLE FINI FLIGHT CIRCUITS GET LOWER AND LOWER • RAF LAKENHEATH

A F-15E Strike Eagle pilot returns on his last sortie at RAF Lakenheath. These are his circuits of his Fini-Flight (traditional flight to mark the last flight, usually celebrated after landing with crew, friends and family).

What is a Low Approach?
It is a when an aircraft will approach the runway at a low altitude (minimum altitude specified by ATC) and will pass low and go around. It is sometimes referred to as a low pass, and is essentially a go-around manoeuvre following an approach. Instead of touching down, a pilot may wish to go-around without touching down in order to expedite a particular operation.

Why do fighter jets carry out a Low Approach?
Well, practice can make perfect but can also burn fuel too. But, this manoeuvre can be useful in combat or if there is an issue with the runway. In combat, many aircraft will operate at altitudes as low as 100 feet and at high airspeeds to defeat ground missile radars and avoid sophisticated surface-to-air missiles, anti-aircraft artillery, and enemy fighters. On a more day to day scenario, there could be a last minute emergency on the runway. It could also be used a reconnaissance too.

RAF Lakenheath is the home of the 48th Fighter Wing and home to four combat ready fighter squadrons; 492nd FS, 493rd FS, 494th FS and the recently reactivated 'Valkyries', the 495th Fighter Squadron. It may carry the title RAF but it is a USAF base. This is because the base was original built for and operated by the Royal Air Force in 1940 and was home to 149 Squadron with their Short Sterling Bombers. They were also joined by 199 Squadron. After WWII, and from 1948, it then became home to the USAF's 307th Bombardment Group and also the 2d Bombardment Group. It wasn't until 15th January 1960 that the 48th Tactical Fighter Wing made Lakenehath their new home. After a few more years the 'Tactical' title was dropped and became 48th Fighter Wing. This included the 'Tactical' title being dropped on the squadrons too.

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