Hill Air Force Base to Fly F-35As Over BYU Game

Jets from the 388th and 419th Fighter Wings will conduct a flyover before kickoff in Provo this weekend.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Latter-Day Saints

Hill Air Force Base to Fly F-35As Over BYU Game

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Hill Air Force Base will perform an F-35A Lightning II jet flyover at LaVell Edwards Stadium on October 17, 2026. The aerial demonstration is scheduled to take place immediately preceding the kickoff between BYU and Notre Dame.

Why it matters

The flyover serves as a ceremonial feature ahead of the matchup between the No. 8 BYU Cougars and the No. 2 Notre Dame Fighting Irish. It highlights a collaboration between the local military installation and the university's athletics program.

The F-35A Lightning II jets are slated to maintain an altitude of 1,000 feet during the pass over the stadium. This event features aircraft originating from Hill Air Force Base.

The players

Lt. Col. Jefferson Page

He is an experienced military aviator who will serve as a pilot for the F-35A flyover demonstration.

Hill Air Force Base

Located in Utah, this major military installation is home to the 388th and 419th Fighter Wings.

BYU Cougars

This university athletic program currently holds a No. 8 national ranking in college football.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish

This university athletic program is a prominent college football team currently ranked No. 2 nationally.

The details

Pilots from the 388th Fighter Wing and Reserve 419th Fighter Wing will operate the aircraft during the planned aerial performance in Provo. Lt. Col. Jefferson Page is confirmed to pilot one of the F-35A jets participating in the display.

The flyover and game occur during the weekend of October 17-18, 2026.

Culture Shift

This event follows the longstanding tradition of military flyovers at collegiate sporting events across the United States. It reflects a common cultural practice where academic and military institutions align during major public gatherings.

Residents and spectators at LaVell Edwards Stadium should expect significant noise levels during the 1,000-foot altitude flyover. Fans are advised to arrive early to ensure they are in their seats to witness the demonstration before the game begins.

The takeaway

Ceremonial military flyovers are highly coordinated events that require precise timing and altitude maintenance. Observers are encouraged to stay aware of local updates regarding flight schedules for similar high-profile stadium events.