The U.S. Air Force announced a last-minute withdrawal of its F-22 Raptors from the planned Super Bowl LX flyover on February 9, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium. Officials cited pressing operational commitments as the reason the aircraft could not participate in the ceremonial display, confirming that mission readiness and active-duty responsibilities took precedence over public demonstrations.

The decision marks a rare instance where ceremonial appearances were deprioritized in favor of operational needs, reflecting the Air Force’s emphasis on maintaining combat readiness even amid high-profile public events. Multiple news outlets, including Military Times, reported the cancellation and emphasized that the F-22 fleet remains fully mission-capable despite its absence from the Super Bowl festivities.

Short video footage circulated online showing F-22s in tight formation flying against a twilight sky, set against urban backdrops. The 23-second clip evokes previous flyovers, demonstrating the precision and technical capabilities of the Raptors, which are typically highlighted during ceremonial events such as national sports celebrations.

Air Force officials noted that while the absence of the F-22 flyover was disappointing to fans, the prioritization of operational duties underscores the critical role these aircraft play in maintaining national security. The Raptors continue to be deployed in missions worldwide, where their stealth, speed, and tactical versatility remain essential components of U.S. airpower.

The cancellation of the Super Bowl flyover highlights the balance the military must strike between public engagement and operational readiness, ensuring that ceremonial activities do not compromise active-duty priorities or mission preparedness.