COMING UP

Luke Days ready to take to the West Valley skies

Luke Days returns this month as a showcase of Air Force strength, skill and pride. And according to Colonel Tyler Smith, to inspire the next generation of military jet pilots.

Colonel Tyler Smith poses at The Air Park on the grounds at Luke Air Force Base on Feb. 5, 2026. The collection features several trainer and fighter aircraft on display, including an AT-6, a T-33 Shooting Star, an F-86 Sabre, and, in the foreground, an F-15 Eagle that was stationed at Luke in 1970s and ’80s.

(Steve Stockmar/Sun Life Magazine)

A U.S. Air Force Airman from the 49th Fighter Wing prepares an F-16 Fighting Falcon for flight, Jan. 29, 2026, at Luke Air Force Base. The effort highlights the role of maintenance professionals in enabling fourth- and fifth-generation fighter integration and sustaining combat readiness.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Belinda Guachun-Chichay)

56th Fighter Wing leadership and honorary commanders observe a flight demonstration during a simulated deployment Jan. 22, 2026, at Barry M. Goldwater Range. The simulated deployment provided community leaders with a firsthand look at how Gila Bend and range operations support the 56th FW mission.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Belinda Guachun-Chichay)

Editor's note: This article originally appeared in Sun Life Magazine, an Independent Newsmedia publication.

Elite pilots in the cockpit of extraordinary fighter jets can make even the most technical feats look routine.

When they’re anything but.

You must be a member to read this story.

Join our family of readers starting at $5 for your first month and support local, unbiased journalism.

Already have an account? Log in to continue.

Otherwise, follow the link below to join.

Luke Days ready to take to the West Valley skies

Luke Days returns this month as a showcase of Air Force strength, skill and pride. And according to Colonel Tyler Smith, to inspire the next generation of military jet pilots.

Deer Valley Unified candidate Q&A: Board Member Roles

Goodyear is building; D.C. keeps getting in the way

Mesa police arrest man in 2-year-old boy’s death

The showroom that leaves a Lasting Impression

Gatlin Brothers to perform at Gilbert venue

‘Magic of Motown’ brings classic hits to Phoenix

Deer Valley Unified candidate Q&A: Special Education

America's Charters of Freedom give Arizonans the power to bargain

Trump, GOP don’t embody the Cowboy Code

Goodyear is building; D.C. keeps getting in the way

Will the real Republicans please step forward?

America's Charters of Freedom give Arizonans the power to bargain

Why I’m voting Scianna over Montenegro for LD 29 House

Bender Performing Arts Halloween Costume Sale …

MCC Bands Concert with ASU Wind Ensemble

Scottsdale Garden Club Opens 2025-2027 Season on …

Rhythm Ramblers to Introduce New Singer in Count …

A Resort Lifestyle Awaits - Join Us for an …

Luke Days ready to take to the West Valley skies

Luke Days returns this month as a showcase of Air Force strength, skill and pride. And according to Colonel Tyler Smith, to inspire the next generation of military jet pilots.

Please log in to continue

Need an account?

Non-subscribers

Register to comment