TONY SCOTT’S 1986 film Top Gun kindled many an adolescent’s fighter-jet obsession, which no doubt came rushing back thanks to last year’s sequel starring a youthfully 60-year-old Tom Cruise still turning and burning. Thankfully, select flight schools can indulge the fantasy with everything from a US$30,000 full-afterburner ride in an F-104 Starfighter, capable of more than Mach 2, to a Federal Aviation Administration-type rating for a host of decommissioned warbirds.
Learning how to captain one of these apex predators involves a highly specialised coterie of flight instructors and hardware – but first, naturally, a private pilot’s licence. Rick Svetkoff’s Starfighters International may not be able to teach Cessna 172 pilots how to fully operate the F-104 in a short window, but the pilot will come away understanding its aerodynamics, thrust, lift and, of course, the nearly unfathomable speed.
This story is from the March 2023 edition of Robb Report Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March 2023 edition of Robb Report Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The World On Your Wrist
Vacheron Constantin goes globe-hopping for its latest Les Cabinotiers collection of one-of-a-kind timepieces.
The Man Behind The Glow
Lars Brittsjo, the visionary CEO and founder behind Nor Sken, discusses the evolution of anti-ageing solutions and the ethos of sustainable beauty.
Fresh Linen
Travellers seeking accommodation options that excite and inspire can approach 2024 with optimism.
Run For Cava
José Ferrer of Vins Familia Ferrer on what makes seriously good vintage cava.
Heart Of Africa
Great Plains Conservation blends bespoke luxury and mindful conservation, offering an African safari experience par excellence.
A Week In Switzerland
There is no better place for watch connoisseurs to get immersed in watchmaking than the birthplace of horology—and no better way to plan the journey than with Scott Dunn Private.
Welcome To The Club
The decadent new Global Ambassador hotel in Phoenix welcomes elite travellers of all stripes-but its most intriguing attraction is for members only.
Flights Of Fancy
The Un Air de Chaumet high jewellery collection soars with evocative expressions of birds in flight.
Signature Moves
An A. Lange Séhne watch can be identified from five paces away. However, for its truly distinctive features, we recommend that you reach for the loupe.
Counting It Down
Luxury watch brands are teasing collectors with new drops ahead of the anticipated annual Watches and Wonders exposition.