Mach Loop - The last low level Grim Reapers’ F-15C Eagles 😢 [4K]

Описание: Words can’t really sum up what happened in the Mach Loop on 21st April 2022. The last two F-15Cs from Lakenheath’s 493d Fighter Squadron, the Grim Reapers, made 4 incredible low level passes around the famous Mach Loop in North Wales.

They always were THE jets to catch low level. Many times I have been to the Mach Loop and have caught these wonderful jets and their super skilled pilots threading their jets through the Welsh Valleys. But today was a very special day.

As you can see in the video, the pilots made a lazy turn at 2-3000ft to begin their final farewell. It brought a tear to my eyes, and I’m not afraid to admit it.

They then split into singles and, in true Grim Reapers style, flew some of the best passes I’ve seen in the 13 years I’ve been shooting these guys low level. Four final trips around the Mach Loop before pulling out at Corris Corner and climbing to 14,000ft to return back to Lakenheath one more time via the Lichfield Corridor.

Note that the lead jet was carrying the Welsh flag which was presented to one of the local low level photographers the following day.

They aircraft on the day were:

REAPER 01 86-0172 with 45 year in Europe special tail
REAPER 02 86-0171

These jets are to leave Lakenheath next week to return back to United States. From there they newest ones will remain in service with National Guard squadrons, the others will probably end up in the largest aircraft boneyard in the world at Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona.

Thanks to the F-15 crew on the day for bringing these awesome jets to Wales, and to the maintainers to get them here. You made our day. It won’t be the same without you.

#avgeek #aviation #aviationlovers #jetsinthewild

00:00 Arrival
00:45 First pass
01:28 2nd pass
02:08 3rd pass
02:54 4th and final pass
03:25 climb out