Fact check: What is the annual fuel cost for the Blue Angels?

1. Summary of the results

The annual fuel cost for the Blue Angels is not directly provided by any of the sources analyzed ^{[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]}. However, estimates of fuel consumption per hour and per demonstration are provided, which can be used to calculate an approximate annual fuel cost. For example, one source estimates that one Blue Angel jet burns 1,200 gallons of fuel per hour, which would cost $12,000 per hour at $10 per gallon ^[2]. Another source mentions that each F/A-18 fighter jet costs approximately $17,838 to $21,288 to fly per hour, including estimates of maintenance, operations, and crew costs ^[1]. The annual operating cost of the Blue Angels is roughly $36 million ^[1]. Key points to note are the varying estimates of fuel consumption and costs, with some sources providing more detailed information on fuel usage during demonstrations and training ^{[2] [3] [5] [7]}.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Some sources provide additional context on the environmental and health impacts of the airshow, which may be relevant to the discussion of fuel costs ^{[5] [7]}. For instance, one source mentions that the Navy uses about 70,550 gallons of jet fuel for Seafair ^{[5] [7]}. Alternative viewpoints on the cost of the Blue Angels are also presented, with some sources arguing that the team's budget should be cut ^[4]. Additionally, the sources highlight the lack of transparency in the fuel consumption data for the Blue Angels, with some estimates suggesting that 1,200 gallons of fuel per hour are burned by one jet ^{[2] [3]}. Different estimates of fuel consumption are also provided, ranging from 1,200 gallons per hour ^[2] to 1,600 gallons per demonstration ^[1]. The variability in these estimates underscores the need for more accurate and reliable data on the Blue Angels' fuel costs.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement asks for the annual fuel cost of the Blue Angels, but none of the sources provide a direct answer ^{[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]}. This lack of information may lead to misinformed estimates or calculations. Some sources may have a bias against the Blue Angels, presenting arguments for cutting their budget or highlighting the environmental impacts of the airshow ^{[4] [5] [7]}. On the other hand, proponents of the Blue Angels may argue that the team's benefits, such as promoting recruitment and morale, outweigh the costs ^[1]. The Navy and the Department of Defense may also have an interest in presenting the Blue Angels in a positive light, potentially influencing the information available on their fuel costs ^[1].