A new documentary film coming May 23 will go behind the scenes of a highly esteemed pillar of the United States Air Force: The Air Demonstration Squadron. These pilots travel around the country performing extremely difficult and uniquely complex aerial maneuvers in military aircraft in order to showcase both the capabilities of the planes and the demo pilots themselves. For the first time ever, viewers will get the opportunity to sit in the cockpit with the Air Force’s legendary flight squadron, The Thunderbirds.

Here’s everything to know about Air Force Elite: Thunderbirds.

What are the Thunderbirds?

Formed in 1953, the team is both one of the oldest squadrons in the Air Force and one of the oldest formal flying aerobatic teams in the world, demonstrating the power of the F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets for over 40 years. In Air Force Elite: Thunderbirds, audiences will witness the unprecedented training, peril, and personal sacrifice it takes to push the limits of aviation as a member of one America’s most revered demonstration teams. 

When is the Air Force Elite: Thunderbirds release date?

The documentary will be available to stream on Netflix on May 23, 2025.

Where can I watch the Air Force Elite: Thunderbirds trailer?

Take a ride with the The Air Demonstration Squadron in the trailer at the top of the page.