ATLANTA — The United States Air Force F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team has announced their new pilot and a newly released schedule for 2018 as the fifth generation fighter prepares to return to select air show sites across the United States, Canada, and Chile. Leading the Langley-based F-22 Raptor Demo Team is Major Paul “Loco” Lopez II who will begin his first of two seasons as the demo pilot. Major Lopez, the team’s first African-American pilot, will fly a nearly 30 minute performance at the air show sites demonstrating the handling characteristics of the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world. Airfields with a long runway will see two F-22’s from the 44th Fighter Group from Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla. One aircraft will be on static display while the other performs before the crowds. Air Force Major Paul “Loco” Lopez II is the new F-22 Demo pilot for 2018 and 2019. Image: USAF “We are absolutely thrilled to have the world’s most advanced jet fighter at our show is truly an honor,” Scott Buchanan of the Vectren Dayton (Ohio) airshow said. “The 2018 show is shaping up to be an amazing event that people definitely won’t want to miss.” The [...]