Hanging out

A Viper West pilot's gear rests on the wing of an F-16 during a visit to Langley Air Force Base, Va., Feb. 1. (U.S. Air Force photo by Justin R. Oakes)

After practice

Maj. Dylan Thorpe, A-10 East Demonstration Team pilot, raises the canopy after a practice flight at Langley Air Force Base, Va., Feb. 1. (U.S. Air Force photo by Scott Knuteson)

A-10 East preps for certification

Two A-10 East Demonstration Team crew chiefs prepare one of the A-10 Thunderbolts for a practice flight at Langley Air Force Base, Va., Feb. 1. (U.S. Air Force photo by Justin R. Oakes)

Raising the Raptor

The F-22 Demonstration Team Raptor takes off from the runway of Langley Air Force Base, Va., Feb. 1, in preparation for the 2011 Air Combat Command aerial demo team certification. Once certified by the ACC commander, demo teams may begin showcasing their aircraft at various air shows across the nation. (U.S. Air Force photo by Scott Knuteson)

Ready to roll

A Viper West Demonstration Team crew chief prepares to signal his F-16 demo team pilot prior launch at Langley Air Force Base, Va., Feb. 1. Viper West was just one of many teams that gathered at Langley to perform and receive their annual certification. Once the commander of Air Combat Command certifies each team, they are able to showcase their capabilities at various air shows around the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Scott Knuteson)

Certifiably ready

An A-10 West Demonstration Team "Warthog" showcases its flying capabilites in the skies above Langley Air Force Base, Va., Feb. 1. Air Combat Command demo teams receive annual certification before performing at any air show. The A-10 Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. It is a simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Justin Oakes)