The B-2 Spirit bomber completed a meticulously coordinated flyover during the 2025 Rose Parade in Pasadena, California, on January 1. This event, which occurs annually, showcases one of the United States Air Force’s most advanced aircraft and symbolizes a connection between the military and the public. The flyover was executed by airmen from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, highlighting the precision and teamwork involved in such an operation.
This year marked a significant moment for the 509th Bomb Wing, as it was the first Rose Parade flyover under the command of Col. Joshua D. Wiitala. He described the past year as one of the busiest in the wing’s history, with numerous deployments and missions, including significant operations in Iran. “It has been a very busy and very consequential year for the 509th Bomb Wing,” Wiitala stated. “We’re really looking forward to this flyover as a chance to connect with the American public.”
The flyover requires extensive planning and coordination. Pilots and support personnel, totaling around 4,000 airmen, prepare for the event by conducting briefings and maintenance checks. The B-2 bombers must navigate through some of the busiest airspace in the country, necessitating close cooperation with the Federal Aviation Administration and local air traffic controllers.
Timing is crucial, as the aircraft must reach Colorado Boulevard precisely at 08:00, coinciding with the start of the parade. Pilots wake up at 02:00 Central Time to begin the three to three-and-a-half-hour flight covering over 1,600 miles. The timing of the B-2’s arrival is calculated to align with the final note of the national anthem, where the word “brave” is held. “We actually time national anthem singers,” Wiitala explained, highlighting the intricate coordination necessary for the flyover.
The mission is not merely ceremonial; it serves as a training exercise for the pilots. “We’re bomber pilots, we’re on time,” Wiitala remarked, emphasizing the dual purpose of the flyover. The use of two B-2 bombers allows for one to serve as a backup, ensuring that both the parade and the subsequent Rose Bowl flyover proceed smoothly.
Since the mid-1990s, the B-2 has been a notable feature of the Rose Parade, with few exceptions. Wiitala, who took command in June 2024, expressed enthusiasm for participating in this tradition, having previously watched from afar during his college years. “I have not been to the parade, I’m really looking forward to it,” he said.
The B-2’s participation in the Rose Parade exemplifies the connection between the military and the local community, particularly in Southern California, where the bombers were designed and maintained at Northrop Grumman’s facility in Palmdale. Wiitala noted the significance of showcasing the aircraft to the community that supports it, adding depth to the experience for both the airmen and the public.
In conclusion, the B-2 flyover at the Rose Parade serves not only as a display of military capability but also as a bridge between the airmen and the American people. It encapsulates a tradition that has become a cherished part of the New Year’s celebrations in Pasadena.
