HILL AIR FORCE BASE — 388th and 419th Fighter Wing pilots began flying night missions Oct. 20-24, and projects future night flying to occur Nov. 3-18, Nov. 25 and Dec. 8-23. Local residents may hear F-16s flying during the night hours as pilots continue to hone their night-time combat flying skills.

The active duty 388th FW and the Reserve 419th FW share a fleet of Block 40 F-16s, and are required to train at night to maintain their readiness and all-weather capabilities. During night operations, the wings’ personnel train with advanced targeting pods and night vision goggles. When deployed, the 388th and 419th provide close air support and must remain proficient in night flying to successfully accomplish their mission.

The wings limit their night operations to what is required to remain proficient in night-flying training. When on a night schedule, flying is anticipated to be completed before midnight.