On July 14, 2025, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, announced the selection of seven new officers to join the team for the 2026 air show season. This milestone highlights the Navy’s commitment to showcasing aviation excellence through the Blue Angels 2026 officers, who will contribute to the squadron’s legacy of precision flying and professionalism.
New Officers Selected for 2026 Season
The Blue Angels 2026 officers include three F/A-18E/F Super Hornet pilots, a C-130J Super Hercules pilot, an Assistant Maintenance Officer, a Supply Officer, and a Public Affairs Officer.
These selections, announced following interviews at Naval Air Station Pensacola during the Pensacola Beach Air Show, ensure the team’s operational readiness. “Selecting new officers is never easy with such a strong pool of candidates,” said Cdr. Adam Bryan is the commanding officer and flight leader of the Blue Angels. “We’re proud to announce our 2026 officers and can’t wait to see the impact they’ll have on next season’s demonstration team”.
Pilot Biographies
The Blue Angels 2026 officers include four pilots with diverse backgrounds:
| Name | Role | Hometown | Current Assignment | Education |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lt. Ronny Hafeza | F/A-18E/F Demonstration Pilot | Redondo Beach, Calif. | Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 122 | University of Colorado, Boulder, 2015 |
| Lt. Christopher Houben | F/A-18E/F Demonstration Pilot | Geneva, Ill. | Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 | University of Wisconsin, Madison, 2017 |
| Lt. Cam Schneider | F/A-18E/F Demonstration Pilot | Thousand Oaks, Calif. | Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 122 | University of California, Santa Barbara, 2014 |
| Capt. Olivia Bair | C-130J Demonstration Pilot | Findlay, Ohio | Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 352 | U.S. Naval Academy, 2018 |
- Lt. Ronny Hafeza brings experience from VFA-122, where he has honed his skills as a Super Hornet pilot. His selection as one of the Blue Angels 2026 officers reflects his exceptional flying abilities.
- Lt. Christopher Houben, assigned to VFA-106, joins the team with a strong background in naval aviation, ready to perform complex aerobatic maneuvers.
- Lt. Cam Schneider, also from VFA-122, adds to the pilot roster with his expertise and training from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
- Capt. Olivia Bair will pilot the C-130J Super Hercules, known as “Fat Albert,” which supports the team’s logistics and performs at air shows. Her Naval Academy training underscores her readiness for this role.
Support Officers
The Blue Angels 2026 officers also include three support personnel critical to the team’s success:
| Name | Role | Hometown | Current Assignment | Education/Background |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jhulem Edejer | Assistant Maintenance Officer | Olongapo City, Philippines | Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 139 | Joined Navy in 2004 |
| Lt. Garrett Wiedle | Supply Officer | Fredericksburg, Va. | Electronic Attack Wing Pacific | U.S. Naval Academy, 2019 |
| 1st Lt. Danielle Cribb | Public Affairs Officer | Beaufort, S.C. | Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort | The Citadel, 2021 |
- Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jhulem Edejer, with over two decades of Navy service, will ensure the maintenance of the Blue Angels’ aircraft, a critical role for safety and performance.
- Lt. Garrett Wiedle will manage logistics and supply chains, leveraging his Naval Academy education to support the team’s operations.
- 1st Lt. Danielle Cribb, a Beaufort native, will handle public affairs, communicating the team’s mission and engaging with audiences.
Selection Process
The selection of the Blue Angels 2026 officers involved a competitive evaluation process, with candidates assessed on their flying skills, leadership, and professionalism. Interviews took place at Naval Air Station Pensacola, the team’s home base, during the week of the Pensacola Beach Air Show. The new officers will begin a two-month turnover period in September 2025, training alongside current team members to prepare for the demanding 2026 season.
About the Blue Angels
Formed in 1946, the Blue Angels are the U.S. Navy’s flight demonstration squadron, showcasing the skill and teamwork of naval aviation through precision flying and aerobatic maneuvers. Based in Pensacola, Florida, the team performs at air shows worldwide, inspiring audiences and promoting the Navy and Marine Corps. The Blue Angels 2026 officers will join a legacy of excellence, performing in over 30 locations during the season.
Community Impact
The Blue Angels’ air shows are a source of pride and inspiration, drawing large crowds and highlighting the capabilities of naval aviation. The selection of the Blue Angels 2026 officers ensures the continuation of this tradition, bringing excitement to communities and showcasing the Navy’s commitment to excellence. The inclusion of a Beaufort native, 1st Lt. Danielle Cribb, adds a local connection for South Carolina audiences.
Looking Ahead
As the Blue Angels 2026 officers prepare for their roles, they will undergo rigorous training to meet the squadron’s high standards. Their contributions will enhance the team’s performances, continuing to captivate audiences and demonstrate the Navy’s aviation prowess. Updates on the team’s preparations and schedule can be found through official Navy channels.
