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Residents around Atlantic City should prepare for potential nighttime disturbances as the New Jersey Air National Guard's 177th Fighter Wing conducts night-flying training. Starting Thursday (February 26) and continuing through Friday, with additional sessions next Tuesday through Thursday, the training aims to maintain mission capability and combat readiness.
The 177th Fighter Wing, based at Atlantic City International Airport, will conduct these exercises using F-16C Fighting Falcons, which are known for their loud engines. The sessions are typically held from dusk until 11 p.m. and are crucial for preparing Airmen and aircraft for homeland defense and global deployment. According to a Facebook post by the 177th Fighter Wing, the training is essential for pilots to practice operating in dark conditions, enhancing their ability to conduct air defense and precision strike missions at night.
While some residents might find the noise unsettling, many in South Jersey view it as a minor inconvenience for an important purpose. As reported by the Press of Atlantic City, commenters on social media have expressed excitement about the training, with some referring to the sound as "the sound of freedom."
The training sessions are part of ongoing efforts by the Air National Guard to ensure that its personnel are prepared for various missions, both at home and abroad. For those who might be affected by the noise, the Air National Guard has provided advance notice to help residents understand the purpose behind the nighttime flights.