KNOXVILLE — Four U.S. Air Force jet fighters are scheduled to fly over Neyland Stadium Saturday before the start of the Tennessee-Alabama football game.
The aircraft will cruise over the stadium at the conclusion of the national anthem.
Most of the pilots and crew members aboard the F-15 Strike Eagles are UT graduates, based at Seymour Johnson AFB, Goldsboro, N.C.
“This will be a patriotic display for the fans, to remind us all of the sacrifices and heroism of our men and women in uniform,” Philip Scheurer, vice president for operations, said Wednesday.
The Federal Aviation Administration has cleared the airspace over Neyland Stadium to prepare for the flyover, but the flight may be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Normal security measures will be in place Saturday, Scheurer said.
Backpacks and other large parcels will not be allowed inside the stadium, and cannot be stored outside the stadium gates. Cell phones, small radios, seat cushions without arms and infant diaper bags accompanied by an infant are allowed, Scheurer said.
All bags and purses are subject to search.
The CBS-televised game will start at 3:30 p.m., with stadium gates opening at 1:30 p.m. The traditional Vol Walk from Gibbs Hall to the stadium starts at 1:15 p.m., and the Pride of the Southland marching band leaves the music building at 1:50 p.m.
Phillip Fulmer Way from Middle Drive to Tee Martin Drive, Peyton Manning Pass, Middle and Lower drives and Estabrook Drive will be closed 30 minutes prior to kickoff. Directional parking will be used in Lot 5 and Area 9.
Knoxville Area Transit will provide shuttle service to the Civic Coliseum parking garage.