How to Get the Most Out of Your Sky Combat Ace Experience
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Your Pre-Flight Checklist for Fun in the Sky
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: The insider’s guide to unlocking your most enjoyable aerobatic flight at Sky Combat Ace
Still considering that Sky Combat Ace flight you've had your eye on? We get it—stepping into a real stunt plane can feel like a big leap. But trust us, the only thing you’ll regret is not saying yes to this once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
To help you picture yourself strapping in and taking off, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to prepare you for your first aerobatic flight. From what to bring (and what to leave behind) to tips for staying comfortable and embracing the adventure, this guide has you covered.
Whether you’re already halfway to booking or you're simply curious about what the day involves, this checklist is your insider’s look at how to prepare for the ultimate thrill ride. Let’s dive in!
3. WHAT TO BRING
Bring Your Sense of Adventure!
At Sky Combat Ace, adventure doesn’t just belong to the daring—it’s for anyone ready to say yes to the extraordinary. When you bring your spirit of adventure, you’re not just flying in a plane; you’re breaking barriers, defying expectations, and proving to yourself that the sky is yours to conquer.
Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or feeling a bit nervous about stepping out of your comfort zone, this experience is designed for anyone with a spark of curiosity and a willingness to try something unforgettable. Guided by expert pilots, you’ll roll, climb, and soar through the sky in a way most people only dream of.
So, bring your most intrepid spirit to SCA and let us show you that sometimes the boldest moves lead to the most incredible memories!
Bring Your Friends & Family
That’s right, you can bring your whole crew! At Sky Combat Ace, we believe every adventure is better with a cheer squad. Whether it’s your best friends, your partner, or your family; non-flying guests are welcome to join in on the fun.
While you’re up in the air pulling off gravity-defying stunts, your crew can kick back in our SCA Lounge—complete with comfy seating, snacks, and entertainment like shuffleboard, video games, and a pool table. After your flight, everyone can gather around for a video preview session to relive the action together. Whether you’re flying solo or with the whole squad, the SCA hangar ensures no one misses out on the excitement.
*When confirming your flight, please let us know how many guests you'd like to bring so we can to ensure there's room for everyone on the shuttle!
2. WHAT TO WEAR
What Should I Wear for a Flight at Sky Combat Ace?
Comfort is key for enjoying your stunt flight adventure at Sky Combat Ace! Wear flexible clothing, closed-toe shoes, and avoid restrictive outfits like tight jeans or stiff jackets. Before takeoff, we'll also be gearing you up in a fighter pilot-style jumpsuit that goes on over your clothes—it's the ultimate outfit for epic photos and rocking your Top Gun vibes!
In the stunt plane, you’ll be seated in a reclined bucket seat and securely strapped in with a 7-point harness, so it's best to stick with comfy clothes that allow you to move easily, as follows:
1. WHAT NOT TO BRING
Fear of the Unknown (You've Got This!)
If you're feeling a bit nervous before your flight, don't sweat it, you're not alone. Flying a stunt plane is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you probably haven't done anything this unique before! Most of the customers who come to SCA are feeling exactly the same way you are - a heady combination of excitement, adrenaline, and pre-flight jitters.
Rest assured, we're here to make this your dream adventure, so our amazing pilots will tailor the experience to the exact adrenaline level you're seeking, from mild to wild.
This isn’t about pushing boundaries you’re not ready for—it’s about helping you discover just how exhilarating flying can be. We guarantee you'll be grinning from ear to ear!
Don't just take our word for it, though: Check out
this true story of a first-time flyer who conquered her fears and loved every minute of her Top Gun Experience!
Worries About the Intensity of the Flight
The best news about flying at Sky Combat Ace? You get to call the shots on how intense the aerobatics will be! If at any time during the flight profile you need to take a little breather or fly straight and level to catch your bearings, no worries! This is YOUR experience and we're here to make sure you squeeze every drop of fun out of this incredible journey we're launching on together.
During your flight, you'll have constant communication with your pilot who will check in with you between each maneuver to make sure you're having a blast. We start out with the more mellow aerobatic maneuvers and gradually work our way up to the more advanced stunts like the famous lomcevak tumble at the end -
don't be shy to let us know if you're game!
READY TO TAKE THE LEAP?
Sky Combat Ace delivers the kind of jaw-dropping, adrenaline-pumping thrills you never knew you needed. We’re talking aerial combat, exciting aerobatic stunts, and full-throttle flying—you're not just watching the action, you're in it.
Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or just curious about stepping out of your comfort zone, this experience is your ticket to the extraordinary.
Let's Make it Happen. Book your Sky Combat Ace flight today:
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.
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!
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!
OPERATIONAL AUTHORITY
All SCA flights are instructional in nature conducted by certified flight instructors in accordance with federal aviation regulations under 14 CFR Part 61 of the United States Code. Instruction will be provided during ground and flight portions for all flights.