Explained: How Am I Even Allowed to Fly a Stunt Plane Myself?!
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I know, it sounds wild...
Taking the controls of a half-a-million-dollar stunt plane and flying it yourself?
And you're right - it is wild. But here’s the thing: it’s also very real. And a lot more doable than you think.
There's a lot going on behind the scenes that makes it possible for anyone -
pilot or not - to step into the cockpit and take the reins on a mind-blowing flying adventure at Sky Combat Ace.
Whether you're chasing your best friend through the sky in a real-life dogfight, or pulling off precision airshow tricks with your own hands on the stick…
I know you’re probably wondering:
How is that even possible... I'm not a pilot?!
We get this question a lot - so today, we’re blowing the lid off how it all works.
This is your peek behind the curtain, on how we turn everyday legends like YOU into stunt pilots for the day...
What You'll Learn in This Guide:
- How your instructor pilot teaches you to fly so fast.
- How our rigorous safety measures work.
- How YOU get to fly the fun bit (While your pilot handles the rest!).
- Why you can feel super confident stepping into the cockpit.
HOW AM I ABLE TO FLY THIS THING?
Here's all the stuff that happens behind the scenes so you can safely (and confidently!)
rip it up in the sky at Sky Combat Ace:
1. YOU’RE FLYING WITH THE BEST OF THE BEST
At Sky Combat Ace, you're not just climbing into a high-performance stunt plane with “some regular pilot.”
You're flying with the
Top 1% of aerobatic instructors
- a rare breed with the chops, cool, and charisma to deliver high-G, high-stakes, high-safety experiences like no one else on Earth.
There’s a reason you can’t do this kind of flying anywhere else in the world. Our crew is handpicked and relentlessly trained - many come from military aviation, combat roles, and elite aerobatic backgrounds.
And flying with them? It’s not just fun. It’s
flawless.
They’re the reason you can step into that cockpit and go full-send -
even if you’ve never touched a control stick in your life.
2. YOUR PILOT HANDLES THE TECHNICAL STUFF
Here’s the secret sauce: you’re in control when it’s fun - but we’re in control when it counts.
While you’re soaring through loops, chasing your opponent in a dogfight, or lining up the horizon for that perfect roll, your instructor pilot is handling everything else behind the scenes.
They'll handle:
✅ Takeoff & landing
(you won’t be white-knuckling a runway anytime soon!)
✅ Throttle, airspeed, and altitude control
✅ All radio comms with the tower & other aircraft
✅ Formation flying & precision proximity flight through canyons
✅ Combat safety protocols, hard deck enforcement, and airspace deconfliction
✅ Weather awareness & flight path adjustments
That means you can stay fully immersed in the moment - hands on the stick, adrenaline surging - without having to sweat the technicals.
You’re not left to figure anything out on your own. Your pilot is right behind you (literally) every second of the flight, keeping everything under control and ahead of the curve.
3. THERE'S DUAL CONTROLS
(So your instructor always has your back!)
Ever seen a driving school car with two steering wheels and brake pedals? That’s kind of what our aircraft are like - but a whole lot faster and cooler.
Every plane in the Sky Combat Ace fleet is equipped with dual flight controls, meaning your instructor has full access to the stick, pedals, throttle, and avionics from the back seat at all times. This setup gives you the ability to fly freely without any risk of messing anything up!
If anything gets off track, your pilot can instantly take over - smooth, subtle, seamless.
And that handoff? It’s always crystal clear. We use a call-and-response system:
🗣️ “You have the controls.”
🗣️ “I have the controls.”
Nobody’s ever wondering who’s flying. You’re either in the zone… or you’re kicking back and letting the pro handle it.
4. YOU'LL LEARN THE ESSENTIALS
Where Your Confidence Takes Off
Before the wheels leave the tarmac, you’ll get a full mission brief. Now, this isn’t a snoozy lecture... It’s hands-on, in-your-face, down-to-earth prep that walks you through every part of your experience.
You’ll learn:
✅ How the flight stick and pedals work
✅ What each maneuver feels like
✅ What to expect at every phase of the flight
✅ How to talk with your pilot over the radio
✅ What to do if you want to pause, stop, or hand back control
By the time you strap in, you’ll know exactly what’s going down - and exactly what to do. No guesswork. No “just winging it".
5. YOU GET REAL-TIME COACHING
Here’s the magic: Our instructor pilots don’t just fly - they coach you in real-time, right over your headset.
You’ll hear things like:
🗣️
“Look off your left wing. Line up the horizon.”
🗣️
“Full left pedal… good. Now pull back on the stick.”
🗣️
“Nice! That’s your first aileron roll - nailed it!”
Everything is broken down into step-by-step verbal instructions. You don’t need a background in aviation. You just need ears, enthusiasm, and a bit of nerve.
Most guests go from
“I’ve never flown anything” to
“Holy wow, I just nailed a barrel roll” in under five minutes.
6. WE'LL CALL OUT YOUR ENEMY
(Yes, we really teach you how to win!)
Here’s where things get seriously badass.
If you’re doing one of our aerial combat packages (like the Sky Combat or Top Gun Experiences), you’ll actually learn to win dogfights in the sky.
You’ll be coached in real time on:
✅
How to spot your opponent & sneak into position
✅ How to turn tighter & pull harder to get behind them
✅ How to maneuver into their blindspot
✅ How to align your gunsight and fire
When you pull the trigger and watch your opponent’s plane tumble out of the sky through a cloud of smoke… let’s just say your inner Maverick will never recover.
7. RADIO CHAT & HAND SIGNALS
Keeping it Clear in the Cockpit
You’ll have a headset for full communication with your pilot during your adventure, and you'll be chatting to each other right the way through. But we also teach you a few hand signals to keep things seamless in-flight.
The basics:
👍
Thumbs up =
ready
👎 Thumbs down =
pause or stop
✊ Shake the stick =
hand over the controls
🗣️ “You have the controls / I have the controls” =
transfer of control
🎯 “Break left!” or “Break right!” = defensive maneuver calls in combat
It’s simple, intuitive, and keeps everyone locked in - especially when you’re flying in tight formation or doing precision stunts.
8. you can TAP OUT ANYTIME...
Or, just hand back the controls!
We’re here to help you push your limits - not break them. If at any moment you feel overwhelmed or just want a breather, you can:
👎
Give a thumbs-down
🗣️
Say
“You have the controls”
✊
Gently shake the stick to hand it back to your pilot
No ego. No pressure. No questions asked. You can take the reins back later - or just sit back and enjoy the ride. It’s your experience. We just make it unforgettable!
*Not sure if you want to actually fly yourself? Check out our ride-along experience, The Operation Recon. This one's a sit-back-and-enjoy-the-ride kinda flight!
9. AND FINALLY…
Why You Shouldn't Hesitate to Take to the Skies!
We get it. Flying an aerobatic stunt plane isn’t exactly something you do every Tuesday. It’s a bucket-list-level leap that demands a lot of trust.
So here’s what you can count on:
✅ Every flight follows FAA-approved protocols & zero-compromise safety margins
✅ Every instructor is handpicked, rigorously vetted, and battle-tested
✅ Every maneuver is 100% optional & fully guided
✅ Every flight is designed to put you in the spotlight, while keeping you in the safest hands possible
Bottom line? You don’t have to be a pilot to fly like one. You don’t have to know the controls - we’ll show you. You don’t have to
“man up”
- you just have to show up.
So… Ready to Take the Controls?
You’re not crazy. You’re not underqualified. You’re just one decision away from doing something epic.
And if you’re still on the fence? Here’s your sign to go for it:
👉 Grab your
VIP Boarding Pass by joining our email list at the end of this article, and enjoy a
massive discount on your first flight!
👉 Not sure which experience to choose? This’ll help: How to Pick the Perfect Sky Combat Ace Flight for YOU >>
Stop watching life from the sidelines. You’re one flight away from feeling unstoppable.
"Pandora" |
Sky Combat Ace Adrenaline Junkie
Need a hand choosing the ultimate aerial adventure for you? No worries wingman, we've got your six!
Just give us a buzz at 888-995-8076 and someone from the crew will be happy to assist!
FAQs
How long does each flight go for?
Flight times vary depending on your chosen flight package, and whether you decide to add any optional flight upgrades. For our signature flight packages, here’s a quick cheat sheet of approximate flight times (This is the actual time you'll be doing the hands-on flying in each experience):
• Operation Recon: Approx 12-14 mins
• Afterburner: Approx 16-20 mins
• Sky Combat Experience: Approx 25-30 mins
• Top Gun Experience: Approx 35-55 mins
Please note, these flight times are approximate and do not include taxiing on the runway, takeoff, and landing.
Please allow 3 hours door-to-door for the entire experience, which includes complimentary pickup, pre-flight briefing, and return trasfers to your hotel.
What time will I be back at my hotel afterwards?
Please allow approximately 3 hours door-to-door for your Sky Combat Ace adventure. This includes complimentary pickup from your hotel, pre-flight briefing, post-flight video previews, and return transfers.
Does SCA pick up and drop off our group at our hotel?
Absolutely! Depending on the size of your group, we can provide complimentary transportation in our shuttle from most hotels on the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown. For larger groups, our VIP Concierge Mia will be happy to coordinate a private shuttle or limousine service, according to your needs.
How do I find my driver at the pickup spot?
If you’ve opted for a hotel pickup, we’ll confirm your exact pickup location over the phone the day before your flight. Please promptly meet the driver at your agreed meeting place at your scheduled pickup time. If you’re having trouble finding each other, please give us a call on 888-494-5850 so we can help you locate the shuttle.
Can my family and friends come too?
Absolutely! The Sky Combat Ace Lounge is the ultimate place to hang out before and after your flight, with plenty of comfy seating, snacks and drinks, and entertainment options including foosball, shuffleboard, video games, a pool table, and several TVs to entertain your guests. Please be sure to confirm the number of non-flying guests you’d like to bring as seating in the shuttle is subject to availability.
Should I plan any other activities immediately after my SCA flight?
Following your adventure, we recommend building a bit of time into your afternoon to rest, recharge, and let your adrenaline settle! It’s best to plan your next activity for a couple of hours after your return so you’re not in a rush and can let the experience sink in!
What if I prefer my thrills on the milder side?
No problem! Our pilots use a building-block approach, starting with the more gentle maneuvers and working their way up to the more advanced stunts at the end. With constant real-time communication with your pilot, they'll be checking in with you between each maneuver to make sure you're having a great time. Unlike a roller coaster where you're along for the ride, our flight experiences are completely customizable to your thrill level. We can always dial down the intensity or take a little break at any time!
I'm not a pilot! Are you really going to let me fly the plane?
We hear this one a lot. Some people find it hard to believe that they can be at the controls of a $500,000 airplane without any prior training. The reason we can do this is quite simple: All of our aircraft are equipped with dual flight controls, so your highly trained instructor pilot can easily take over the controls in the unlikely event that it becomes necessary. All of our instructors undergo a rigorous training program and are skilled at safely maneuvering aircraft through every kind of unusual attitude and aggravated spin that you can imagine. Our training equips us to handle situations that are far more challenging than anything we might encounter on a typical customer mission. All flights are instructional flights defined under 14 CFR Part 61 of the United States Code and all participants will receive ground and airborne instruction throughout their flight.
In case you still don't believe us, wait till you see your video after the flight! During many maneuvers, you will see your instructor pilot put his hands in the air. So yes, YOU really are flying the plane.
Are there any restrictions on who can fly?
For your comfort and safety, you should be in good health and free from high blood pressure, heart, back or neck problems, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure. Expectant mothers should not ride. Height and Weight Restrictions: Weigh between 80lbs & 265lbs (120kg) and no taller than 6'6" (201cm)
Is Sky Combat Ace safe?
Safety is our top priority. All flights are conducted by expert aerobatic instructor pilots, and we use the world's most advanced FAA-certified stunt planes to guarantee the highest safety standards. All participants receive thorough safety briefings, and our professional pilots ensure a safe, controlled experience during each flight.
What if I get airsick?
At Sky Combat Ace, we do everything in our power to prevent people from getting airsick. All of our profiles use a building block approach, starting with basic maneuvers and working our way up to more advanced profiles. At any point, we encourage our customers to communicate their comfort level and we are happy to take a break between maneuvers to give your stomach a chance to catch up.
It is a common misconception that you should fly on an empty stomach. The truth is that you should adhere to your normal habit patterns. While it may not be advisable to eat a breakfast buffet just before your flight, you should have something in your stomach, perhaps a light breakfast, such as cereal or some fruit. Though you should always stay hydrated, it is probably a good idea to stay away from alcohol before an aerobatic flight.
We also encourage customers to do as much flying as possible during the flight. The more you immerse yourself in the experience, the less likely we are to get sick. Incidentally, the most common cause of airsickness at Sky Combat Ace is due to hangovers. We know you like to party, but try to hit the sack early the day prior to your Sky Combat Ace adventure!
If you feel that you are susceptible to motion sickness, we recommend a Dramamine tablet the night prior and another one 1 to 2 hours before your flight.
Are videos or pictures included in the price?
In order to keep our prices as low as possible, we don't bundle videos or photos into the price of your experience. We offer a variety of professionally-edited photo and video packages for purchase on the day, starting at $50 per person.
Can I bring my own GoPro or camera to record the flight?
Due to FAA rules and regulations, we cannot bring unapproved cameras on SCA flights. Our custom-built mounts and cameras have been tested to withstand the rigors of unlimited aerobatics for your safety. But don't worry, we'll be recording every moment of the action with 4 onboard cameras! We offer a variety of professionally-edited photo and video packages for purchase so you can relive your adventure and show your friends!
Who do I contact for large group bookings?
Mia, our VIP Group Bookings Concierge, is looking forward to answering your questions and tailoring the ultimate adventure day for your group! Please select a time on Mia’s Calendly link and she will reach out to you at a time that suits you best. Alternatively, you can also call us at the hangar 7 days a week on +1 888-494-5850.
Can Sky Combat Ace come to us in a different city?
For special occasions and larger group bookings, we’re able to bring our aircraft, expert pilots, and adrenaline-fueled experiences directly to your location. Just let us know where you need us, and we’ll make it happen.
What is the most thrilling thing to do in Las Vegas?
The most extreme adrenaline experience in Las Vegas is flying a real stunt plane at Sky Combat Ace. Unlike ziplining or roller coasters, here you’re in control—executing aerobatic stunts under the guidance of an expert pilot.
Is Sky Combat Ace worth it?
1000% yes. If you love adventure, this is Vegas’ most extreme adrenaline rush. Forget ziplining or diving race cars—here, you’re actually controlling a stunt plane.
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Fly A Real Stunt Plane!
Sky Combat Ace was created by a U.S. Air Force veteran fighter pilot who wanted to make the thrill of flying fighter jets available to anyone who feels the need for speed.
Learn to fly a stunt plane under the supervision of our highly trained, FAA certified flight instructors. No experience necessary and YOU get to fly the plane!