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| The Geico Skytypers | |
|---|---|
| Name | Geico Skytypers |
| Country | United States |
| Base | Farmingdale, New York |
| Aircraft | AT-6 Texan |
| Role | Aerobatic demonstration team |
| Founded | 1999 |
The Geico Skytypers are an American civilian aerobatic flight demonstration team known for performing precision maneuvers in World War II-era aircraft. The team has operated from Republic Airport, performed at venues such as the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, and appeared alongside events like the IndyCar Series and NASCAR races, drawing audiences that include officials from the Department of Defense, veterans of the United States Navy, and members of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.
Formed in 1999 by pilots with backgrounds in organizations such as the United States Air Force, the Skytypers evolved from exhibition teams that included former Blue Angels and Thunderbirds members, and worked with aviation companies like Grumman and North American Aviation restorers. Early performances connected them to airshows hosted by the Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum affiliates, and they performed at commemorations for events such as D-Day anniversaries and Pearl Harbor remembrances. Over time the team engaged with military heritage groups like the Commemorative Air Force and collaborated with museums including the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum and the Pima Air & Space Museum.
The Skytypers flew modified North American AT-6 Texan (SNJ) aircraft, restored by specialists with ties to firms such as Boeing subcontractors and vintage-restoration shops that have serviced airframes from Curtiss-Wright and General Motors wartime programs. Modifications included smoke systems used at displays seen alongside equipment from manufacturers such as Hamilton Standard and avionics suites comparable to upgrades by Garmin and Honeywell. Their liveries were produced by paint shops experienced with historical schemes for airframes preserved by the Air Force Heritage Flight Foundation and the Veterans Airlift Command.
The team conducted demonstrations at major airshows and public events including EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Expo, National Cherry Blossom Festival, and ceremonies at The White House grounds as part of national celebrations alongside units like the United States Marine Corps bands and performers from the United States Army Band. They frequently participated in civic events with organizers from the Smithsonian Institution and cultural festivals coordinated by city governments in locales such as New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles. The Skytypers shared billings with military demonstration teams including the Royal Air Force Red Arrows, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, and the Patrouille de France at international airshows such as Farnborough Airshow and Paris Air Show.
As with other display teams like the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds, the Skytypers operated under oversight from entities such as the Federal Aviation Administration and consulted with organizations like the National Transportation Safety Board after incidents. Notable incidents prompted investigations involving aviation insurers like AIG and litigation venues such as courts in New York (state) and California. Safety practices reflected standards promoted by groups including the Experimental Aircraft Association and procedures common to vintage-flight operators connected to Commemorative Air Force chapters.
Sponsorship by corporations like GEICO brought commercial branding and marketing collaborations with media conglomerates including NBCUniversal, Fox Broadcasting Company, and Warner Bros. for televised events. The team appeared in promotional segments for motorsport partners such as NASCAR broadcasts and in coverage by outlets including ESPN, CBS Sports, and CNN. Their media presence included features in aviation magazines like Flying (magazine), AOPA Pilot, and appearances on network programs produced by Discovery Channel and History (TV network).
Pilots and support crew came from backgrounds in institutions such as the United States Air Force Academy, the United States Naval Academy, and civilian organizations like the Civil Air Patrol. Maintenance personnel included mechanics certified through programs associated with Federal Aviation Administration repair stations and training provided by manufacturers like Pratt & Whitney and General Electric Aviation. Administrative and public relations functions coordinated with agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration's regional offices and event promoters such as International Council of Air Shows.
Category:Aerobatic teams Category:Airshows Category:Aircraft organizations