Following World War II, Skytyping (also know as skywriting) became a popular form of marketing and publicity. With the abundance of surplus military aircraft, the skies of America became filled with puffy white messages advertising products, services and the occasional marriage proposals.
Formed in 1977, the Geico Skytypers stay true to their origins. Dazzling airshow crowds with their formation of SJN-2’s (and one T-6), they use the latest GPS skytyping technology in their routine. A feature that separates this flight demonstration team from the rest.
When performing, the Geico Skytypers are precise, exact and on point as one would expect from an aerial demonstration team. As they do their walkdown in their official uniforms, they have the flash, presence and pizazz that rival that of the Thunderbirds or Blue Angels.
At a recent event, the Air Museum Network got the unique opportunity go back stage and get a glimpse into the life of the Geico Skytypers on airshow day.
We were greeted at the gate by the Team’s Media Relations Rep, Brenda Little. A quick ride in the “Geico Mobile” found us on the apron alongside the Skytyper’s rig and “Mobile Office”. The entire team was gathered. We were introduced to Geico #8. Steve Kapur has been with the Skytypers for more than a decade. He accompanied us to the aircraft for a guided tour. The aircraft sat there perfectly aligned, 5 SJN-2’s and the lone T-6 painted in their distinct red, white and blue color scheme. As we took a walkaround Steve explained the characteristics of the aircraft and the special Skytyping technology built into the aircraft which nowadays is controlled by an iPad.
After the aircraft tour, we were able to interact with the pilots and crew. It took less than 5 minutes to realize that even though show time was right around the corner, the environment at base camp was relaxed and they seemed to be take the day as it came.
While they wait for their call, every element of the team kept themselves occupied. In between checking on the aircraft and polishing the canopy, the ground crew relaxed and admired the other aircraft flexing their muscles as they performed for the crowd. Greg Coons made sure the Skytyper colors were bright and shiny as he polished “his” rig, the 18 wheeler and mobile offic”. Bob and Ken Johansen (Geico #4 and #2, as well as being father and son) discussed aerial maneuvers and slot pilot Dino Reros stood off on his own rehearsing the show routine like if it were the paso doble.
Airshow formalities are discussed and taken care of in between the roars of military jets racing over their heads. You wouldn’t be among pilots if you didn’t eventually hear the now infamous “Top Gun” quote…. “Negative Ghost rider, the pattern is full”. Somehow that line always gets a laugh. It’s an aviation thing.
While inside the mobile office, Geico #3 Chris Orr signs last minute autographs in between the wise cracks casually being tossed around. All this shouldn’t be a surprise. After all, this group of pilots has flown hundreds of hours together since their days of skytyping. The 12 team pilots fly the 6 aircraft at airshows on alternate flight schedule. This schedule is set up according to their availability. Each pilot blocking out time throughout the season to ensure the team meets its obligations.
As their time to shine approaches, the pilots begin to consult with the ground crew and prep the aircraft for the day’s demonstration. Their relaxed demeanor begins to give way to the game face. “Briefing time”….That was our cue to leave, the Skytypers were going into lock down. Like a Broadway show, when the curtain opens, it’s show time.
As we were driven away in the Geico Mobile, we couldn’t help but comment to Brenda Little, ”What a great bunch of guys”. The friendly atmosphere and camaraderie amongst the team is contagious. The Geico Skytypers made The Air Museum Network feel like we belonged.
We found our place among the airshow crowd and waited anxiously. One by one they appeared from stage right. As they taxied to the end of the runway, the sound of their Pratt & Whitney engines were silenced by the blistering whine of an F-22. They then took to the skies and showed the fans that Skytyping is here to stay.
For more information on the Geico Skytypers, go to www.geicoskytypers.com
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