Ferndale Native Lt. Col. Dane Coppini to Lead Flyover at NFL Game

Air Force Lt. Col. Dane Coppini, a pilot with over 15 years of experience, will conduct a flyover featuring four T-38C Talon jets during the upcoming National Football League game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, October 8, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. in Kansas City. This event honors Military Appreciation Month and highlights the contributions of service members to the community.

Coppini is currently assigned to the 87th Flying Training Squadron, known as the “Red Bulls,” stationed at Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio, Texas. This base is recognized as the top pilot-producing facility within the Air Education and Training Command (AETC). Coppini noted that his squadron typically requests a few flyover opportunities each year, and this marks his first participation in such an event since joining the squadron approximately a year ago.

The T-38C Talon serves as the U.S. Air Force’s primary training jet, utilized by pilots training for advanced combat aircraft. Each flyover will feature two pilots per jet, highlighting the skill and dedication of men and women in uniform.

Coppini’s military career began 19 years ago when he enlisted, serving four years as a member of the security forces. Inspired by his experiences during his first deployment, he pursued a path to become a pilot, ultimately attending Officer Training School. His career includes a distinguished eight-year tenure with the Air Force Special Operations Command, three years at the Pentagon, and numerous deployments, spanning locations such as Afghanistan and Iraq.

Reflecting on his roots, Coppini expressed deep gratitude for the support he has received from family and friends in his hometown of Ferndale. He remarked, “Growing up in a small town, you don’t realize how special that community is until you leave. I appreciate it more now than I did when I was growing up.”

As he reflects on his extensive career, Coppini shared his enthusiasm for flying and instructing the next generation of pilots. “At this point in my career, not many people get the chance to fly as much as I do. It’s a blessing and an honor,” he stated, emphasizing his dedication to his role.

Coppini’s mother, Carrie Coppini, is understandably proud of her son’s accomplishments. She recalled when he first expressed his ambition to become a pilot after returning from deployment in Bagram, Afghanistan. “We’re super proud of him. He’s just done so much in his career,” she said. The family plans to gather to watch the flyover, celebrating this significant achievement together.

As he prepares for his flyover, Coppini looks ahead with a sense of purpose. He and his wife intend to retire in Springfield, Missouri, when the time comes. His journey from Ferndale to the skies above an NFL game illustrates not only personal ambition but also the strong community ties that have supported him throughout his career.