tailhook down in flight? (jet)

[BostonMike7]

Something that's always puzzled me. In watching various fighter jet videos on youtube, I often see jets (mostly F-18) flying with the tailhook only down, but gear up. Usually it's in formation, or doing something that does not look like being setup for landing.

In what situation, if any, would a naval pilot drop his tailhook in flight while leaving gear up, and not in a landing situation?

[ericsvibe]

They do this just for the pictures, or video. It is kind of like a salute. A "tip of the hat".

[West Phx Native]

The plane is excited.....