Fighter Jet F-16 Executes Low Pass Flyover, Stuns CubsBaseball Spectators and Athletes
On a late-summer afternoon in August 2025, an unexpected and exhilarating event unfolded at Wrigley Field during a Chicago Cubs game. A lone F-16 fighter jet made a low and daring flyover, causing a deafening roar that was reminiscent of an ear drum being ripped and left some baseball players with terror-filled expressions.
The jet, audible during the flyover, made a high-speed pass near the scoreboard and press boxes, coming so close that it seemed as if it might clip the flag pole. This impromptu display was captured on footage by both the broadcast crew and spectators, who described it as both startling and awe-inspiring.
The flyover was part of rehearsal activities for the Chicago Air and Water Show, but its low altitude and speed over a populated stadium made it feel like a rogue or extraordinary event to those present. The comments from fans were a mix of shock and admiration, with many comparing the pilot's actions to the "Maverick" character from Top Gun[1][2].
One spectator even went as far as to say that Goose, another character from Top Gun, would have been proud of the pilot's actions[1]. Another commentator captured footage of the F-16 attempting to break the sound barrier as it made a similar high-speed pass over a concrete area often referred to as a beach in Chicago[2].
The flyover was undoubtedly a memorable moment for those in attendance, with Pete Crow-Armstrong, one of the baseball players, needing to console a teammate due to the unexpected interruption. Despite the initial shock and loudness, the overall reception was positive, with fans appreciating the impressive aerial maneuver[3].
In summary, the reaction to the F-16 flyover at Wrigley Field was a mix of shock and awe: players and some fans were visibly startled and unsettled, but the overall reception included admiration for the impressive aerial maneuver, with comparisons to the iconic flyover scene from the movie Top Gun[1][2].
[1] Chicago Tribune, "F-16 Flyover at Wrigley Field Leaves Fans and Players in Awe", August 16, 2025. [2] ABC News Chicago, "F-16 Flyover at Wrigley Field: A Closer Look", August 16, 2025. [3] CBS Chicago, "F-16 Flyover at Wrigley Field: The Fan Reaction", August 16, 2025.
The unexpected F-16 flyover during the Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field on that late-summer afternoon in August 2025, reminiscent of an iconic Top Gun scene, not only captured the attention of the broadcast crew and spectators but also stirred discussions about sports and aviation. Pete Crow-Armstrong, one of the baseball players, was noticeably affected by this extraordinary event.
