I've been seeing F/A-18s flying around downtown ATL today. This is why:
By RUSSELL GRANTHAM
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
If a Boeing 767, three Blackhawk helicopters and four F/A-18 fighter jets fly low overhead tomorrow evening, don't be alarmed.
It's supposed to be part of the patriotic fun.
The aircraft -- piloted by Delta Air Lines employees who are military reservists or veterans -- will fly about 2,000 feet over the crowds at Lenox Square at 8 p.m. before the July 4 fireworks show, then head downtown to fly over Centennial Olympic Park.
Delta is making the flights and sponsoring local festivities as part of a marketing push to highlight its role in carrying troops to the war in Iraq, as well as the contribution of 296 employees who served. The upbeat patriotic theme, also used in new TV and radio ads, is intended as an antidote to two years of troubles at the Atlanta airline.
"Since the [2001 terrorist attacks], we have been focused on surviving," Delta marketing chief Vicki Escarra said. "We're feeling like we're out of the woods."
But the sight of a low-flying widebody could be worrisome, she acknowledged. "I think that's why we are doing what we can to get the word out ... so people can relax and enjoy it."
Two months ago, jittery New Yorkers lit up emergency lines when a Continental Airlines plane ferrying returning troops made a low pass near the Statue of Liberty.
The Federal Aviation Administration is aware of Delta's plan. The airline says residents from Marietta to south Atlanta could notice the flyover and hear noise.
By RUSSELL GRANTHAM
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
If a Boeing 767, three Blackhawk helicopters and four F/A-18 fighter jets fly low overhead tomorrow evening, don't be alarmed.
It's supposed to be part of the patriotic fun.
The aircraft -- piloted by Delta Air Lines employees who are military reservists or veterans -- will fly about 2,000 feet over the crowds at Lenox Square at 8 p.m. before the July 4 fireworks show, then head downtown to fly over Centennial Olympic Park.
Delta is making the flights and sponsoring local festivities as part of a marketing push to highlight its role in carrying troops to the war in Iraq, as well as the contribution of 296 employees who served. The upbeat patriotic theme, also used in new TV and radio ads, is intended as an antidote to two years of troubles at the Atlanta airline.
"Since the [2001 terrorist attacks], we have been focused on surviving," Delta marketing chief Vicki Escarra said. "We're feeling like we're out of the woods."
But the sight of a low-flying widebody could be worrisome, she acknowledged. "I think that's why we are doing what we can to get the word out ... so people can relax and enjoy it."
Two months ago, jittery New Yorkers lit up emergency lines when a Continental Airlines plane ferrying returning troops made a low pass near the Statue of Liberty.
The Federal Aviation Administration is aware of Delta's plan. The airline says residents from Marietta to south Atlanta could notice the flyover and hear noise.
