There are few things more intense in life than flying just feet apart from another jet at over 500 miles per hour. But that’s exactly what I experienced when I joined the Baltic Bees Jet Team — Europe’s premier civilian-owned fighter jet display team — for an unforgettable formation flying experience.
This wasn’t just another flight. This was precision, adrenaline, and raw aviation skill — all captured for my latest documentary project.
Who Are the Baltic Bees Jet Team?
Based in Jurmala, Latvia, the Baltic Bees Jet Team has become world-renowned for their jaw-dropping displays of formation aerobatics, performed in their striking blue and yellow L-39 Albatros jets. Founded in 2008, the team regularly performs across Europe, Asia, and beyond, showcasing the highest level of precision flying outside of the military.
What makes the Baltic Bees unique is that they’re fully civilian — yet they operate at a standard comparable to military display teams. Flying formation just feet apart, pulling up to 6 Gs, executing loops, rolls, and opposing passes — it’s a combination of skill, trust, and absolute focus.
Inside the Experience: Formation Flying at 500mph
For me, this was the next level. I’ve had the opportunity to fly with some of the world’s top aviators — from the Patriots Jet Team in California to aerobatic flights with Red Bull pilots and beyond. But formation flying? That’s a whole different challenge.
During this project, I flew in the #1 lead jet alongside team leader Artyom Soloduha, the man behind the Baltic Bees’ success. We performed a full airshow sequence — locked in with four jets, wing to wing, just feet apart. At 500mph, with the Gs stacking up, the intensity is hard to describe.
Looking out of the cockpit and seeing another aircraft inches away, knowing that one wrong move could be catastrophic — that’s where training, discipline, and complete trust in your team becomes essential.
And the G-Force? It’s relentless. We pulled 6 Gs, my body pressed down, lungs fighting for air, all while staying locked in formation. It’s physically punishing, mentally exhausting — and absolutely exhilarating.
From Cold War Airbase to World-Class Airshow Team
What made this experience even more special is where it all takes place. Jurmala Airport, the Baltic Bees’ home base, isn’t just any airfield. It was once a Soviet military airbase, used during the Cold War for storage, operations, and even nuclear weapons. After years of abandonment, it was brought back to life — and today, it’s the heart of one of Europe’s most iconic jet teams.
Watch the Full Baltic Bees Documentary
I captured every part of this project — the history, the behind-the-scenes access, the flight preparations, and of course, the jaw-dropping moments in the sky.
You can now watch the full video on YouTube:
👉 Watch the Baltic Bees Formation Flight Video
If you’re passionate about aviation, extreme experiences, or just want to see what it’s like to fly fighter jets in formation — this video is for you.
How You Can Support
These projects take months of planning, filming, and editing, and every bit of support helps me keep pushing further.
-
Please watch the video
-
Leave a comment — I read every one!
-
Share it with friends
-
And if you’re interested, subscribe for more extreme aviation content
Thank you to the Baltic Bees for the opportunity, and to everyone who follows the journey. The next adventure is already in motion.
See you in the skies,
Louis Skupien