U.S Airforce confirms fighter jets over Omagh

The ferocious roar heard throughout Omagh earlier this week was caused by American fighter jets flying over the county town, the U.S Airforce have confirmed to We Are Tyrone.

On Wednesday afternoon, local people and animals got a fright when a thunderous rumble brought the town to a standstill.

However, following a few days of confusion for local people, the U.S Airforce have confirmed that the sound was caused by a number of F-15E Strike Eagles soaring through local airspace.

In a statement to We Are Tyrone, a U.S Airforce spokeswoman said, “I want to confirm that the jets that flew over Omagh on Wednesday were U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles from the 48th Fighter Wing, located at RAF Lakenheath (West Suffolk).

“The 48th Fighter Wing houses both F-15E Strike Eagles and F-35A Lightning II aircraft.

“Routine operational training flights and airspace routes occasionally take our aircraft though Northern Ireland, but not the Republic of Ireland.

“I do not have an exact height they were flying at the moment the came through Omagh but it was within the prescribed parameters of the Civil Aviation Authority.

“The Strike Eagle is a dual engine aircraft, and as such the noise likely made it sound much lower than it was in reality.”

She continued, “Although not incredibly common for us to come through Omagh, I hope this note will provide some contextual background for the roar the townspeople (and animals) heard. Our intent was certainly not to frighten anyone. We routinely train in both day time and occasionally evening and night flights to maintain readiness should we be called upon in defence of NATO Allies and partners… Thank you again, for making contact and I look forward to working with you in the future.”