Climb in the Cockpit for a Unique Flight Experience at the Air and Space Museum
March 6, 2011 in News by Margaret Kimball
The Air and Space Museum invites visitors to "earn their wings" as they choose from a number of simulated air experiences. Guests may either take an interactive flight which allows them to control the action in an aerial combat or ride in a space or air craft. While "flights" are 2 passenger experiences, "rides" accommodate up to eight passengers. This is an exciting way for family, friends, or groups to take their Air and Space experience to a new level.
Photo © Ed Siasoco on Flickr
Those who long for a taste of the air combat, which is analyzed throughout the military history portions of the Air and Space museum, are given an opportunity to enjoy an interactive flight simulator experience. A pilot and co-pilot 48" or taller may pay $8 each to hop into the cockpit of an F-4 Phantom II fighter jet and try their hands at taking down enemy aircraft.
This is an exercise in cooperation, as one guest acts as the pilot taking off from an aircraft carrier, and careening through the air in pursuit of opponents, while the gunner carefully times the release of projectiles to take down their objectives. The goal of the exercise is to take down the five bogeys traditionally required to garner the title of combat "ace".
Larger groups and those who do not wish to "work" for their flight experience may opt for the $7 ride simulators. Unlike the interactive simulations, there are many options of ride experiences. While offerings vary from day to day, they are usually divided into the categories of air or space experiences. Some of the most common space experiences are the "Cosmic Coaster", a roller-coaster ride to the stars, and "Space Walk" tour of the International Space Station.
Air simulations include the "F-18 Experience" which allows guests to experience the thrill of riding in the jet currently employed by the Navy's Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Team. "Wings" is another air simulation which allows guests to ride in a variety of aircraft, letting them experience the evolution of combat aircraft through history.
Flight and ride simulators are available at both the National Mall campus of the Air and Space Museum and the Udvar-Hazey Air and Space Annex in nearby Dulles, Virginia. If you want to take your Air and Space experience to new heights, consider taking advantage of an Air and Space Simulator Ride!
Website: www.nasm.si.edu/
