FAQ's (Frequently asked questions)

CONTACT

CONTACT

Do I need a reservation?

Yes…we operate on an advanced reservation basis to make sure that we don’t overbook our flights (unlike most commercial airlines). If you just walk in without an appointment and we have room, we are happy to plug you into our next available flight time. However you risk not being able to fly at our next available flight time or at the least having to wait two hours until that flight is ready to be briefed.

How far ahead will I need to book?

That would depend on the day you are trying to come in and how many people you are trying to make an appointment for. The more people you have in your party, the more challenging it can be to find a flight to accommodate you all. Weekends book the quickest with Saturday typically being our busiest day. It is easier to find flight times for larger groups (4 to 7) during the week. We recommend trying to make reservations as early as possible…giving yourself at least a week ahead of time gives you your best chance of success. You know what they say…”The early bird gets the simulator!”

What is the best way for me to get a reservation?

You can always call us at (714) 937-1511 and we would be happy to check our schedule for your preferred date and flight time. If we are closed or busy helping pilots during our business hours, you can leave a message and we will get back to you the next business day!

What are your flight times?

Monday: Closed to the public

Tuesday-Thursday: 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm, 7 pm.

Friday-Sat.: 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm, 7 pm, 9 pm.

Sunday: 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm, 7 pm.

What is your cancellation policy?

We require at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel your reservation or reduce the number of pilots in your party, otherwise you will be responsible for the full price of the flights that you reserved. This is only fair, we feel as we may have to turn people away due to a flight being full, and when you don’t show up or reduce the number in your party at the last minute, we aren’t able to fill those spots and lose that income. Our C.O. (Commanding Officer) really hates to lose income. It makes him very crabby… something about “not being able to pay rent and payroll”. We realize that sometimes things come up and emergencies happen. We aren’t unreasonable, we just ask you to notify us as soon as possible, being the considerate person that you are.

Are there any age limits?

Due to the nature and amount of information given in the pre-flight briefing and the ergonomics of the cockpits, we’ve decided that 13 is the minimum age for our pilots. We have no maximum age, however pilots do need to be able to climb up a four-step ladder and climb into the cockpit as well as climb out at the end of their flight (we don’t allow overnight stays). Our most seasoned pilot to date has been 92 years young. If you have your eye sight and reasonable use of your legs and hands, then this is the experience for you!

Are there any height and/or weight limitations?

We have had professional basketball players fly sucessfully (David Robinson at 7'1"). We normally suggest a weght limit of 350 pounds as an upper limit.

How many people can fly at one time?

As of June 22nd, we have 8 F-16 cockpits that are networked by computer. Like the actual F-16, each cockpit has room for only one pilot (being extremely friendly or small doesn’t qualify for teaming up in the same cockpit).

How should I dress for my flight?

We suggest War-casual. We will provide you with an actual aviator flight-suit that has been pre-tested by actual pilots and authenticated for its durability. Stiletto heels are not recommended (especially for men).

Do I need to have any experience (I’m not a pilot or good at video games”)

Actually a vast majority of folks who come to Flightdeck would fall into those categories. Not to worry, we provide all of the training you will need during our 15 to 20 minute pre-flight briefing where you’ll participate in a PowerPoint presentation by one of our highly skilled crew members and receive your mission orders and instruction. Plus during your flight you will be on aviation headsets with our ATC (Air Traffic Control) personnel who will answer any questions or remind you of anything you may have forgotten or missed in the briefing.

Do the simulators move?

Like most military simulators, ours are stationary. There isn’t an easy way to replicate the G forces a pilot pulls during a typical mission, so the experience is entirely visual and audio. This allows our more motion sensitive patrons to get in touch with their inner Top Gun as well as those who have no motion issues.

Are there any physical limitations?

You must be able to climb up a 5 step ladder and step into the cockpit, and then reverse the process (in order to go home again). Because the cockpit doesn't move, there is no problem once you are inside the simulator. Having good eyesight is a bonus.

I get motion-sick easily…will that be a problem for me?

No, to this day we haven’t had a single pilot hurl their K-rations during or after a flight. Because the simulators themselves don’t move and you have entire control of your jet the whole time, even the people who tell us “I’ll be the first one to get sick” have a great time and get to keep their cookies firmly planted in their stomachs!

How long does the experience last?

We normally tell people to count on about 90 minutes from the time you check in until the time you walk back out the door. Actually it lasts long past the actual time spent flying in the cockpit, as pilots will spend hours regaling each other (and anyone within ear-shot) about how many bogeys they splashed and how challenging it was to use their radar, and how well they landed, or how many times they crashed while trying to land, etc. The actual flight times depend on the mission flown (40, 60 or 70 minutes in the cockpit).

Is the time spent in pre-flight briefing included in the mission times?

No.

Is there an observation area where people who aren’t participating can watch?

Yes we have an Officer’s Club (AKA “The Widows and Orphans Club”) where anybody who doesn’t need to get in touch with their inner Top Gun can watch and listen to the exciting action on video monitors while sitting on a comfortable couch and chairs. However, they will be required to periodically oooh and aaahhh, laugh/cry and possibly ridicule their pilots (in a loving way, of course).

MORE FAQ'S HERE

Certain Photos Courtesy of the US Air Force & US Navy