Randy Ball, MiG-17F pilot, activates his afterburners during takeoff at the 2012 Barksdale Air Force Base Defenders of Liberty Air Show, April 22. Ball is an aerial stunt performer, and an airline captain with more than 20 years of flying experience. (U.S. 1st Force photo by Airman First Class Andrew Moua)(RELEASED)
Randy Ball, MiG-17F pilot, banks right in his aircraft as he performs at the 2012 Barksdale Air Force Base Defenders of Liberty Air Show, April 22. In the Korean War era, before the F-16 Fighting Falcon was introduced into U.S. service, the MiG-17F was the tightest turning aircraft in the world. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Andrew Moua)(RELEASED)
Randy Ball, MiG-17F pilot, taxis down the base flightline after giving an aerial performance at the 2012 Barksdale Air Force Base Defenders of Liberty Air Show, April 22. Due to its maneuverability and great heritage, the MiG-17F is one of the most popular air show jets in the world. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Andrew Moua)(RELEASED)
Randy Ball, MiG-17F pilot, greets the crowd after his performance at the 2012 Barksdale Air Force Base Defenders of Liberty Air Show, April 22. The aircraft's agility, power and speed influenced its long use by the Soviet Union from its introduction in the early 1960s until it was pulled from service in 1990. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Andrew Moua)(RELEASED)