Discovery Channel to follow seven fighter pilots on “Jetstream”

By Officer Cadet Dave Andrews

OTTAWA – Ever wondered what it was really like to fly one of the upgraded CF-18 fighter jets with all its new bells and whistles?  Seven fighter pilots from 4 Wing Cold Lake are getting that chance and every hour of their flying time is being filmed for an upcoming series on the Discovery Channel called “Jetstream.”

A Vancouver production company called Paperny Films is creating eight, one-hour episodes about seven fighter pilots who were selected to fly the upgraded CF-18 Hornet at 410 Squadron. Filmed over a period of 35 weeks, the documentary will capture every aspect of their training from their first days in their new quarters to their highly anticipated first solo flights.

“We wanted to show all aspects of the Air Force, from the behind the scenes, nitty-gritty technology to the human stories. Audiences will be able to experience them all,” says Cal Schumiatcher, executive producer of the series.

Viewers will be able to tune in and watch as Lieutenant Shamus Allen, Captain Mike Dunning, Captain Riel Erickson, Captain Tristan McKee, Captain Mike Lewis, Captain Tim Coffin and Captain Yannick Jobin master the military tactics and technologies required to fly the Hornet. Every episode will conclude with the pilots flying simulated missions with each subsequent mission becoming more intense and complex.

“ ‘Jetstream’ will explore the science and technology – and indeed the psychology – of what it takes to succeed in this world that few of us will ever experience,” said Paul Lewis, President and General Manager of Discovery Channel. 

“We wanted to show Canadians the people who dedicate their lives in service of their country, as they are so often anonymous. When you give them a face and allow for an understanding of their passion, work ethic and dedication to their jobs, the audience will gain a new appreciation for the tireless hours that they put in,” said Cal Shumiatcher.

The production will provide high-level exposure for Air Force pilot training through a variety of media including a companion Internet site produced to accompany the series. It will incorporate simple interactive versions of the missions flown by the pilots.

The series is expected to air on the Discovery Channel in the fall of 2007.