SWANTON, Ohio — As tensions continue overseas, Ohio’s own pilots will be taking to the skies this week for scheduled training missions.
The Ohio Air National Guard’s 180th Fighter Wing announced it will conduct nighttime training flights from Monday, March 2, through Thursday, March 5, weather permitting. Residents in northwest Ohio and parts of southern Ohio may see or hear F-16 fighter jets taking off and landing until about 10 p.m., including the possible use of flares.
Officials said while most training occurs during daylight hours, pilots and maintenance personnel are required to conduct night operations to maintain overall readiness.
In addition to night flying, the 180th Fighter Wing will conduct an air defense exercise over southern Ohio on Monday between 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Those living in and around the Hillsboro area may notice fighter jets operating in close proximity to a Civil Air Patrol aircraft, which will act as a simulated “Track of Interest,” or TOI — an aircraft identified as a potential threat.
The exercise is designed to evaluate response and coordination procedures.
Military officials noted that flight schedules could change due to weather conditions.