It’s hard to put into words what it feels like to stand beside the F-22 Raptor. A marvel of modern aviation, this fifth-generation fighter jet represents the pinnacle of stealth, speed, and agility. With its sleek lines, advanced avionics, and overwhelming presence, the Raptor is a true symbol of cutting-edge military aviation. But my recent experience working with the F-22 Demo Team goes beyond just admiration—it’s been a deeply personal and professional highlight that I can’t wait to share.
A Special Opportunity in Los Angeles
Fresh off an incredible project with the Patriots Jet Team, I was invited by the U.S. Air Force to join the F-22 Raptor Demo Team in Los Alamitos, California, just before the Huntington Beach Airshow. This wasn’t just another aviation content project for me—it was the opportunity to work with one of the most elite flight demonstration teams in the world.
After a thorough background check and verification process (trust me, this was no easy feat), I was given the green light to go behind the scenes and capture rare content for my documentary. It was a unique chance to show the Raptor in all its glory, both in the air and on the ground, from angles and perspectives that the public rarely gets to see.
The Magic of the Raptor
The F-22 Raptor isn’t just another fighter jet. It's a technological masterpiece designed for air dominance, able to engage and eliminate threats before the enemy even knows it’s there. From its ability to cruise at supersonic speeds without using afterburners to its stealth capabilities that make it nearly invisible on radar, the Raptor is built for speed, strength, and precision.
But what makes the Raptor even more impressive is the team behind it. The F-22 Demo Team is a group of highly trained professionals dedicated to showcasing the aircraft’s capabilities. Led by Major Samuel 'RaZZ' Larson, the team gave me an insider’s perspective on just how much skill, dedication, and preparation go into every single flight.
Capturing the Unseen
For my project, I had the privilege of filming some incredibly rare footage in Los Alamitos before the airshow. I captured everything from pre-flight checkups to maintenance work and the Raptor's intricate take-off sequences. One of the highlights was filming a close-up of the F-22’s signature thrust vectoring in action, a feature that gives the aircraft unrivaled maneuverability.
In addition to the flight demonstrations, I had the chance to film the team up close, capturing their rigorous preparation process. Major Larson and the team were incredibly welcoming, allowing me to document everything from their pre-flight briefings to their post-flight debriefings.
During one of the days, I even managed to get footage from angles that put the viewer right in the cockpit with the pilot—an experience that most aviation enthusiasts only dream of. For the final video, I'm working on a larger piece that will highlight not only the aircraft's insane capabilities but also the dedication of the team that keeps it flying at peak performance.
Beyond the Jet
While the F-22 itself was undoubtedly the star of the show, the most valuable part of this experience was the connection I formed with the Demo Team. It’s one thing to watch a jet tear through the skies from the ground; it’s another to work closely with the men and women responsible for making it happen. The teamwork, trust, and professionalism they exhibited were inspiring, and I’m proud to have had the chance to capture that spirit on camera.
Looking Forward
The F-22 Raptor project was a major milestone in my aviation career, and I’m excited to share the final video with you all soon. It’s a piece that will showcase not just the aircraft but also the incredible dedication of the people who make it soar. As I continue to work on editing and producing the final footage, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to be part of something this special.
Stay tuned for the full documentary, where I’ll be revealing some never-before-seen footage of the F-22 Raptor, its team, and the magic they bring to the skies!
