Forum: Modern Military Aircraft

JR, got it, thanks. I've pretty much decided to spend a day with aircombatusa who fly the sf260. I have the money to go to Moscow and fly in a Mig 29 but I can think of some better things to do with the money. I appreciate your insights into the different aircraft.

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I have around 35 hours in the Marchetti, around 19 in various Pitts (S-2A, B & C)and 30 minutes in an Extra-300L. Flying the SF-260 is hard work - one F-18 pilot said that circuits were far busier in the Marchetti than in the jet - because of the relative speed of the aircraft compared to the Cessnas an the like, and because of the high cockpit workload. But it's a lot of fun - and I certainly felt like a fighter pilot when I first flew it. You also sit next to the instructor, which makes it easier to understand what's going on. The aircraft handles beautifully - nicely weighted, though quite heavy in roll - like a P-51 and for anyone used to a trainer the climb rate is spectacular (around 1800 fpm).

The Pitts S-2B or S-2C is tremedous to fly, and a pig to land, with very poor forward visibility. It's got incredibly sensitive controls and it's a joy to fly. Quite a few operators use them for joyrides, because of the classic biplane, "Biggles" look, which the non-flying public loves. It climbs at around 2800 fpm - 50% faster than the Marchetti - and is pretty good in the vertical, too.

But the Extra is absolutely something else. It's climb rate is a little fater than the Pitts - around 3200 fpm. You sit semi-reclined under a big bubble canopy - rather like an F-16. And if you're flying with an ex RAF Red Arrows pilot, as I was, you'll have a buzz that lasts for days. It is also a very forgiving aircraft - still responding to ailerons in stall.

If you want to get the biggest high from the flight, go for the Extra. If you want to get the ACM buzz - try a Marchetti - or find a place that uses Extras for ACM - I think there is somewhere that uses both Marchetti and Extras for ACM - so you could try both in succession. And if you just want a fun classic (biplane) joyride, fly the Pitts. But in truth, any fo these will leave you on a high for ages.

thanks for the info. I have a trip coming up to Arizona where I will have the opportunity to fly in an extra 300. Any thoughts about whether I should go thru the fighter pilot for a day course (which is about $1K) or take a joy ride in the 300 (which is about $250)? With the money saved I could take additional rides or experience other aircrafts however, I would like to experience what's it like to be a fighter pilot. Any thoughts would be appreciated. thanks

The cheap and clever solution might be the Extra 300 joyride, then a Thrustmaster HOTAS Cougat stick and some pedals for your PC, combined with a copy of the IL-2 Forgotten Battles Ace Expansion pack simulation software. A friend who regularly dogfights online and in the air (the latter in an aerobatic monoplane trainer) seems to enjoy the simulation almost as much as the airborne version. You can build your skills quickly and cheaply in the virtual world, whilst saving yourself some more money then go and surprise your opponents in a FPD combat. You also get a better appreciation for the tactics on screen than with your head in an airsickness bag! I'd also suggest a copy of the Robert Shaw book - Fighter Combat Tactics and Maneuvring.

The Extra ride will give you a good idea of the forces and thrills experienced by fighter pilots

Just wondering if you got your flight? And in what?

Good timing on your question. I'm scheduled to go up next Monday in an Extra 300. I'll be without email next week but I will let you know how it went as soon as I get back.

Unfortunately I was not able to go up. I was planning to fly with FCI last Tuesday however I waited too long to make a reservation and they were all booked up. If anyone knows where I can fly an Extra 300 near Atlanta I would appreciate the info. thanks

Not sure how near is near, but you could call SouthEast Aero in Fort Augustine - they're a dealer and should know who has one and where: [Link pending approval] Or try Keith Aviation also in FL: [Link pending approval]

Forum: Modern Military Aircraft

Which would you choose to experience ACM?