The Glory of the Breitling Jet Team’s American Tour

The Breitling Jet Team is back. For the second time, the luxe watchmaker will unleash its squad’s wild, unique brand of aeronautical theatrics at America’s most scenic spots. Slated as the “largest civilian aerobatic team,” the outfit puts some of the world’s sharpest aces, most of them from the French air force or Patrouille de France, on display. Seven pilots, all flying sleek, military-spec L-39 C Albatros aircraft. The Czech-made twin-seater is a clever, precise thing in the hands of a crafty pilot. And the BJT doesn’t do half-trot; the formations are complex, and speeds during demonstrations reach 565 mph.

As the BJT’s 2016 American Tour kicks off, check out these glorious photos from last year’s shows. Part aviation porn, part naturalistic spectacle, flyovers across our big and beautiful country look absolutely glorious.

Dig it? Check out a full schedule for the Breitling Jet Team’s American tour, here.