Air show crowds usually see six Blue Angels jets flying the main routine. But a seventh aircraft may appear trailing the formation or operating nearby. That jet is the team’s two-seat “No. 7” aircraft, used for support tasks that help the demonstration run safely and smoothly.

The Blue Angels’ primary demonstration is flown by six F/A-18E Super Hornets. The extra aircraft is a two-seat F/A-18F, which the team keeps available as a backup and uses for non-demonstration duties during show weekends.

One reason the No. 7 jet can be seen behind or near the team is that it is used as a spare or backup aircraft. If a demonstration jet has a mechanical issue or is otherwise unavailable, the extra aircraft gives the team flexibility without immediately canceling appearances.

Another reason is its role in show-site outreach. The Blue Angels say they typically provide two backseat flights at each show site in the No. 7 jet: one for a “Key Influencer” selected through a program connected to recruiting goals, and one for a credentialed media representative. Those flights are intended to support the team’s broader public mission, which the Blue Angels describe as showcasing Navy and Marine Corps teamwork and professionalism through flight demonstrations and community outreach.

In short, the jet that sometimes trails the Blue Angels is there because the team operates more aircraft than the six used in the main routine, and the No. 7 two-seat aircraft is assigned to backup and outreach functions that support the demonstration.