Foul weather disrupted a long-standing Rose Parade tradition on Thursday, as the iconic B-2 Spirit stealth bomber was unable to make its usual flyover during the 137th edition of the event in Pasadena.
The bomber’s first scheduled appearance over the parade route was canceled due to dense, low cloud cover and rainy conditions, according to US Air Force officials. While spectators gathered under cloudy skies expecting the familiar thunderous roar overhead, the aircraft remained grounded because the weather made flight conditions unsafe.
A second planned flyover during the pregame ceremonies at the Rose Bowl was also delayed. However, the bat-winged aircraft ultimately took to the skies and made its appearance over the historic stadium at around 3 p.m., during halftime of the Rose Bowl game. By that point, Indiana University held a 17-0 lead over Alabama.
Air Force officials said the heavy cloud cover significantly limited visibility, preventing the bomber from safely navigating the area earlier in the day.