Residents around the University of Tennessee's campus and the downtown Knoxville area received a heads-up from the University of Tennessee Police Department about the planned flyovers involving two F-35 fighter jets.
The department indicated that the aircraft, part of the 58th Fighter Squadron from Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, would make their presence known not once, but twice on Friday afternoon. According to a statement obtained by WATE, locals should "expect to hear the planes passing overhead twice" around 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., preparing for Saturday's homecoming game flyover. The sound of the jets is expected to be quite loud, so this served as a fair warning to those in the vicinity.
The actual flyover is scheduled to occur at the start of the Tennessee-New Mexico State University football game, as part of the homecoming festivities on Saturday. This event, coming soon after Veterans Day, also doubles as a "Salute to Service" game. WVLT notes that the kickoff is set for 4:15 p.m., during which the jets are slated to soar over the stadium precisely as the national anthem is played.
The F-35 Lightning fighters are not only known for their formidable noise levels — they also come with a hefty price tag, estimated at around $100 million each. As reported by Knox News, this will be the first flyover at a UT game since a government shutdown postponed such displays. The shutdown, which ended on November 12, led to a skipped flyover originally scheduled for September 20 against UAB.
In celebration of the armed forces, the Tennessee Vols will wear their "Volunteer Spirit" Smokey Grey uniforms, designed with contributions from various military branches, during the homecoming game. This is one of many gestures meant to honor military personnel, a fitting tribute during a game that recognizes their service and sacrifice.
