Watch The Code: Life With the Thunderbirds

The Code: Life With the Thunderbirds is a thrilling documentary series that follows the famous and highly skilled U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds team as they prepare, perform, and execute some of the most dangerous air shows in the world. Produced by Onion TV, this series provides a unique inside look at the lives of the pilots and support staff who make it all possible.

Unlike other aerobatic teams, the Thunderbirds are much more than just a high-flying air show act. Consisting of six F-16 pilots, the team trains for months before beginning their globe-trotting schedule of performances, which can span over 70 cities in a single year. In this show, viewers get to witness the grueling process of getting the pilots and team ready for the show season, as well as some of the unexpected challenges that can arise along the way.

The show's first episode introduces the team's new commanding officer, Lt. Col. Kevin "Lowen" Walsh, who takes over after the previous CO is promoted to a higher position. Lowen is tasked with leading the team through an intense training cycle, designed to push the pilots and support staff to their limits while maintaining the team's impeccable safety record. The episode shows the team practicing high-speed maneuvers, perfecting their precision flying, and even simulating emergency scenarios that test their reaction times and critical thinking skills.

But this show is not just about high-flying stunts and thrilling aerial displays. Viewers also get a peek behind the curtain at the rigorous physical and mental requirements that Thunderbirds pilots must meet before they can even be considered for the team. In one scene, we see a potential new recruit undergoing a grueling obstacle course that tests his agility, reaction time, and stamina. The show also highlights the importance of teamwork and communication, as the pilots and support staff must work together seamlessly to ensure the success of their performances.

Throughout the series, The Code: Life With the Thunderbirds showcases the incredible skill and dedication required to pull off these breathtaking aerial displays. From the awe-inspiring diamond formation to the heart-stopping solo passes, viewers get a front-row seat to some of the most impressive feats of aviation in the world. And with behind-the-scenes footage of the pilots preparing for their shows and interviews with the team's leadership, viewers also get a sense of the camaraderie and sense of pride that the Thunderbirds embody.

But the show doesn't shy away from the risks that come with flying at such high speeds and in such close proximity to one another. The Thunderbirds have had their share of accidents over the years, and the series touches on some of the close calls and tragedies that have affected the team. This adds a poignant reminder of the sacrifices that these brave men and women make in order to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.

In conclusion, The Code: Life With the Thunderbirds is a thrilling and fascinating portrait of one of the most impressive and respected aerial displays teams in the world. From their rigorous training and physical requirements to the teamwork and dedication required to execute their stunning performances, this show provides a unique insight into the lives of these exceptional pilots and support staff. Whether you're a fan of aviation or simply interested in learning more about the people who make these incredible stunts possible, The Code: Life With the Thunderbirds is a must-watch series.