National Day Parade 2020 fly past rehearsal 1

A big "Thank You!" to friends around the island who kept my phone buzzing with updates this morning as the National Day Parade fly past rehearsal got underway.

Thanks to your keen eye, we managed to track the formation of five Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) F-15SG Strike Eagles as they circled Singapore repeatedly even as many of us were committed to work-from-home arrangements. (Note: I wasn't at the window staring into oblivion. Don't have to with chat apps providing near realtime updates and pictures.)

Weather conditions this morning were perfect for low level flying. After weathering two consecutive days of pre-dawn Sumatras on Monday and Tuesday this week, the dry weather, sunny skies and gentle breeze were a welcome change.

The RSAF Heli Group was active too. At least two formations of helicopters were seen. Each comprised a CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopter accompanied by two AH-64D Apache attack helicopters. The Chinook rehearsed without the Singapore flag, which is usually carried underslung from its cargo hook.

Paya Lebar Air Base, which is the home base for the F-15SGs, was busy on Thursday afternoon with static line paradrops from a C-130 Hercules sharing the air space with flights of F-15s.

NDP 2020 flypast rehearsal dates:
June 25: 8.55am-11.30am

July 4, July 11, July 18, July 25: 8.55am-11.30am

Aug 1, Aug 9, Aug 10: 8.55am-11.30am

An RSAF Chinook and two Apaches seen practising for the NDP 2020 flag fly past during the RSAF's first internal rehearsal for this year's parade. Every image and sighting report is welcome as they help contribute to the bigger picture. Thank you all.