Top Gun Experience Gloucestershire
Take part in your very own Top Gun experience in Gloucestershire with maximum aerial thrills and a head to head air combat in a Bulldog aeroplane. The Bulldog is a versatile low-wing monoplane used by 10 different air forces around the world, some of which equipped it with rockets and 7.62mm machine guns. Powered by a four cylinder Lycoming horizontally opposed air cooled engine delivering 200bhp, you'll certainly feel the need, the need for speed!
From the start of your Top Gun experience you'll feel like a true member of the flying team, as you are paired up with an ex-Military training pilot, kitted out in military flying suits with parachute and shown the cockpit controls in the dual-controlled Bulldog.
The two Bulldogs will take off at once, immediately taking part in a formation climb, before pulling some classic aerial stunts to get you acclimatised to the power and the force of the g. Then it's time for the grande finale - the head to head air combat with the aim of 'shooting down' the baddie. Move over Tom Cruise - this is real life Top Gun aerobatics!
If all this sounds a little too much, we've got
gentler flying lessons available too at venues nationwide.
Experience Summary: Total duration is three - four hours. Top Gun Bulldog flights are approximately 45 minutes long. Ground briefing is approximately 40 minutes and includes all safety/parachute procedures. After a formation take off you'll be doing most of the flying as you learn the effects of aircraft controls and aerobatic manoeuvres. Then it's time for air combat against your opponent. After returning to base your debrief will include the amount of g pulled, a review of the air combat results and a signed flight certificate. You'll also have the chance to purchase a DVD recording of your flight ( around £45).
Availability: Flights take place most Fridays and Saturdays, March to October inclusive. Additional days are available if you book as a pair (shooting down a friend is really satisfying). Year round
flying experiences also available!
Location: The airfield is approximately 70 miles west of London near Cirencester with good access via the M4. The nearest train station is Kemble providing fast train links from London Paddington.
Requirements: Minimum age 12, over 55's will need a doctors confirmation that you are fit to fly, and take part in this experience. Maximum weight is 17 stone, maximum height is 6'5". You will be required to complete a medical self certification form before flying. Light flat shoes with good grip must be worn - trainers are ideal. You will be kitted out with genuine military flying suits - please wear comfortable casual clothes to go underneath. Changing facilities are limited. Cameras are not allowed on board the aircraft.
Spectators and Facilities: Participants are welcome to bring up to two guests who may attend all briefings (subject to space). Additional guests are allowed however they may not be accommodated in the crew room. It is not recommended to bring children to the airfield. Refreshments are provided for flyers. There is a restaurant on site which serves excellent food. Aerobatic flights do not take place over the airfield, but spectators will be able to watch take off and landing of the aircraft.