Learning to fly a plane can be an exhilarating experience, but for some aspiring pilots, they want to bring out their inner Top Gun and feel what a dog fight is like. Air Combat USA aims to bring the aerial combat experience to civilians, offering fighter pilot sessions where people get to actually control the plane and battle against other people.
The company was established in 1988 as the original dog fighting school for civilians, flying more than 48,000 guest pilots with locations around the country. Guests are placed inside an SIAI Marchetti SF260, an Italian fighter aircraft FAA certified for up to +6/-3 Gs. California locations also added an Extra 300L, a favorite plane of aerobatic pilots. The seats of the planes are side-by-side style, which unlike the front-back tandem style, lets the guest pilot the plane while the instructor still has access to the controls for safety.
Guests typically control the plane about 90 percent of the time they are in the air. A training session will get beginners accustomed to the plane and even teach them some aerial maneuvers. Once comfortable in the pilot’s seat, guests battle each other in a series of dog fights that feel like the Air Force’s version of lasertag. The game utilizes a tracking system patented by Air Combat president, Captain Mike Blackstone, where a confirmed hit results in smoke released from under the fuselage.
Cockpit cameras record all the action, and are given to guests in a post-fight debriefing. There are a variety of packages available for beginners and advanced pilots. To learn more about Air Combat USA, visit their website.
Read This Next
Ice Cave Hiking in Montenegro
Adventure
Oct 18, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Dec 19, 20244 Hotels to Stay at for 2025 Sporting Events
Diehard sports fans often travel near and far to watch their favorite teams. With plenty of exciting sporting events taking place in 2025, these hotels offer a respite for sports fanatics after the events.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Hotel
Dec 19, 2024Postcard Cabins Brand Now Part of Marriott
More than 1,200 glamping cabins recently joined Marriott in an acquisition set to bring more travelers closer to nature. Postcard Cabins, formerly Getaway, was founded in 2015 with the mission to bring free time in nature to more people.
Destinations / Europe
Dec 18, 2024Why You Should Visit Florence in January
Ready to book your first 2025 getaway? Consider Florence, Italy, for two can’t-miss events in January.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Hotel
Dec 18, 2024Brookmere Debuts Today in Saratoga Springs, New York
Brookmere debuts today in Saratoga Springs, New York, for its soft opening. Situated on 10 acres near many of Saratoga Springs’ iconic attractions, this property boasts 88 guestrooms and suites alongside a host of well-appointed amenities.
ShareThis