Find out all about fighter jet flying: preparation, thrills, cost and locations, through our comprehensive FAQ for an unforgettable adventure.

Fighter jet flying offers an immersive and intense experience, allowing participants to discover the dynamic capabilities of high-performance military aircraft. This activity, traditionally reserved for military aviation professionals, has been democratized to offer civilians the opportunity to experience the thrills and adrenaline characteristic of high-speed flight and aerobatics. Tematis has been offering flights and baptisms on Fouga Magister, L-39 Albatros, Mirage III and MiG-29 aircraft since 2006. We are the pioneers of fighter jet flying in France and the rest of Europe. We’re very proud to have been able to democratize this unique flying experience.

Why take a first flight in a fighter jet?

Experience the thrill of a unique experience

Fighter jet flying is synonymous with adrenalin and thrills. Reaching supersonic speeds as in a MiG-29 and performing complex aerial maneuvers lets you live out a childhood dream, feeling like a real fighter pilot. It’s an experience that pushes personal limits, offering an extraordinary adventure far removed from everyday activities.

Learn about the world of military aviation

Taking part in a fighter jet experience immerses you in the cockpit of a state-of-the-art aircraft, allowing you to discover its advanced technologies. Participants learn the basics of piloting techniques and aerial maneuvers under the tutelage of experienced pilots. It’s a unique opportunity to understand the crucial role of fighter pilots and the strategic importance of the air force in national defense.

Give the gift of a lifetime

A flight in a fighter jet makes an original and deeply memorable gift. Whether it’s to surprise a loved one with a passion for aviation, or to offer an extraordinary experience, this gift will remain engraved in the memory as an unforgettable moment. It’s a symbolic way to celebrate a special event or mark an important milestone in life.

What is a fighter plane?

A fighter jet, also known as a fighter or fighter aircraft, is a military aircraft designed to achieve air superiority in combat against enemy aircraft. It is designed to maximize speed, agility and weapons precision. These aircraft are equipped with advanced air combat technologies, including radar, targeting systems and sophisticated weapons. Beyond their primary military role, fighter jets also find a place in leisure activities, offering civilians the experience of supersonic speed and aerial maneuvers. These fighter flight experiences are supervised by professionals to ensure safety and immersion in the world of combat aviation. Contemporary fighter jets include the Dassault Rafale and Mirage 2000 used by the French Air Force.

Fighter aircraft available for this experience

Tematis offers you the chance to take your first flight on one of the 4 fighter jets we have available. Fighter aircraft such as the Fouga Magister, L-39 Albatros, Mirage III, and MiG-29 are frequently used for first flights, offering a wide range of flying experiences.

The Fouga Magister is renowned for its historic role in fighter pilot training. Its unique V-tail design and maneuverability offer a perfect introduction to flight dynamics and aerobatics, ideal for a first baptism.

L-39 Albatros, a Soviet-designed jet trainer, is appreciated for its robustness and ease of handling. It combines performance and safety, offering participants an authentic jet flight experience without compromising safety.

Mirage III, an emblem of French military aviation, stands out for its supersonic capabilities and combat-optimized design. Flying a Mirage III lets you experience the speed and power of a real operational fighter.

Designed for air superiority, the MiraG-29 represents the pinnacle of air combat technology. With its ability to operate at supersonic speeds and its agility in aerial combat, the MiG-29 offers an incomparable experience, close to real combat conditions.

These aircraft are chosen for their unique characteristics, which make them suitable for a variety of experiences, from aerobatics to combat simulation, while maintaining the highest safety standards for participants.

How does a fighter jet flight work?

A fighter jet flight is broken down into several key phases, offering a complete and immersive experience. The process begins with a safety briefing and an introduction to the principles of flight, essential to prepare the passenger.

Take-off: The first adrenalin rush comes with take-off, where the power of the fighter jet is fully felt, propelling the aircraft to high speed in a matter of seconds.

Discover the sensations: Once aloft, passengers discover the unique sensations of fighter jet flight, including a few aerial evolutions to demonstrate the aircraft’s maneuverability.

Low-altitude flight: The next phase can include a low-altitude flight, to get a more hands-on feel for the aircraft’s speed relative to the ground.

Piloting: In certain cases, the pilot may offer the passenger the opportunity to take the controls briefly, under strict supervision, to experience the sensations of piloting.

Aerobatic program: The highlight of the show is often an aerobatic program, where the pilot performs complex maneuvers such as loops, rolls and tight turns, demonstrating the aircraft’s extraordinary capabilities.

Landing: To conclude the experience, the pilot regains full control for a soft landing, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.

Each stage is designed to maximize the passenger’s experience, combining safety, education and, above all, an extreme dose of adrenalin and excitement.

How long does a fighter jet experience last?

The duration of a fighter jet experience varies, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour. The choice mainly depends on individual preferences and the available budget. A longer flight offers more time to enjoy the scenery and the unique experience of flying. However, the aerobatic portion remains constant, regardless of the total duration of the flight. This is due to the physical limits imposed by the G-forces exerted on the body during aerobatic maneuvers. G-forces, or gravitational forces, can be intense and tiring, limiting the amount of time a passenger can comfortably endure these extreme conditions. This time management ensures an experience that is both exhilarating and safe, tailored to each participant’s ability to resist.

What does it feel like to fly in a fighter jet?

A fighter jet flight generates a multitude of sensations, ranging from extreme excitement to the realization of a dream for many. As soon as the plane takes off, the rapid acceleration produces an intense thrust, putting pressure on the body as the aircraft lifts off the ground. This initial phase often evokes a mixture of surprise and wonder at the sheer power of the aircraft.

At altitude, the sensation of speed is omnipresent, especially during low-altitude passages when the landscape passes by at breathtaking speed. This perception of speed is accentuated during aerial maneuvers, where changes of direction and loops introduce G-forces. These forces, ranging from 3G to 9G depending on the maneuver, press the body into the seat, testing the passenger’s physical limits and resilience.

Aerobatics, the heart of the experience, involves loops, rolls and other complex maneuvers. These moments can provoke a sensation of weightlessness followed by intense pressure, providing a striking contrast that is the charm of the experience. The ability to maintain orientation and awareness under these conditions is a challenge, making the experience all the more rewarding. https://www.youtube.com/embed/QGx524YKUsQ?si=qH7-KM9-HIA_IFet&controls=0

Who can fly a fighter jet?

To take part in a fighter jet flight, precise eligibility criteria must be met to guarantee the safety and well-being of participants. A medical certificate attesting to the absence of contraindications to the practice of an aerial sport is essential. Candidates must be in good health, with no cardiac or neurological problems. A liability waiver, signed before the flight, confirms understanding of the associated risks. The minimum age is 16, with parental permission required for minors. Physical restrictions include a weight of between 50 kg and 108 kg, and a maximum trunk height of 98 cm. These measures are designed to ensure that participants can withstand the G forces and maneuvers without risk to their health.

What are the safety precautions?

Safety measures for a fighter jet flight are rigorous, guaranteeing the safety of participants. Before the flight, a detailed briefing covers the essential aspects of the aircraft and the flight. This briefing includes an introduction to the aircraft’s instruments and a focus on the use of the ejection seat, a crucial safety element in the event of an emergency. Specific cockpit safety instructions are also explained, ensuring that participants are fully aware of the procedures to be followed.

Each participant is equipped with a G-suit. This special outfit helps manage the effects of the high gravity forces encountered during aerial maneuvers. Being physically fit on the day of the flight is imperative, as resilience to intense flying conditions largely depends on the participant’s physical condition, and this will enable you to get the most out of the flight. Be rested.

Is there a minimum height or specific requirements for a first flight?

Weigh no less than 50kg, and no more than 108kg. Height of trunk: 0.98 cm max.

Can I take photos or videos during the flight?

You can film and take any photos you like on the ground, but in the cockpit, once in flight, no devices are allowed, as they could pose a risk to the piloting of the aircraft if your camera or phone falls into the rudder pedals – the flight controls. But the flight is filmed with wide-angle Go-Pros, so you’ll have a wonderful souvenir of your flight.

Should I eat before a fighter jet flight?

Yes, it’s a good idea to eat before the flight to give you energy. And you’ll need it to hold the Gs during aerobatic maneuvers. You’re also likely to be a little stressed on the day of the flight, so eating beforehand will help you cope better and enjoy the experience. Avoid fatty foods, however.

What clothes should I wear for a fighter jet flight?

The most important thing during the flight is to feel comfortable. Wear comfortable clothes, with a pair of sneakers. You’ll feel good. In summer, it can sometimes get hot under the cockpit canopy, so opt for a T-shirt or light shirt.

How much does a fighter jet flight cost?

Flight prices vary according to the aircraft and the duration of the flight. Fouga Magister flights are the most affordable, starting at around 2,000 euros for a 30-minute flight. Flights in the L-39 Albatros are around 2900 euros, while flights in the MiG-29, and particularly the stratospheric flight, can reach 17000 euros.

Where can I enjoy this experience?

We offer fighter jet flights all over France and abroad. Go directly to https://www.tematis.com/vol-avion-chasse for a full list of locations.

Check our fighter jet experiences and get in touch to fly with us!