The program offers an elite aviation and leadership experience using military-grade F-35 simulators, providing real fighter pilot training in Downtown NYC.
The Top Aces Youth Academy, also known as The Squadron, offers an elite one-week aviation and leadership summer program for teens aged 12-18 in Downtown NYC. Participants engage in an immersive experience that mirrors a fighter pilot's day, including morning briefings, simulated missions, and debriefings. Cadets utilize military-grade F-35 simulators to learn aviation physics, navigation, formation flying, and simulated dogfights. The program emphasizes developing a "Pilot's State of Mind," focusing on complex decision-making under pressure and mastering combat aviation skills such as commanding the four forces of flight, altitude management, and high-pressure stall recovery. Cadets also suit up in flight gear, earn a call sign, and participate in scramble launches and interception missions. The curriculum is designed to teach fundamentals of flight before progressing to advanced maneuvers, aiming to take cadets from "zero to hero" regardless of prior experience. The program also focuses on building character, leadership skills, and communication through its debriefing methodology.
A typical day at the academy involves morning briefings, simulated F-35 missions in military-grade simulators, and debriefings to build character and leadership skills.
This program is best for teens aged 12-18 interested in aviation, leadership development, and mastering complex decision-making in a high-pressure environment.
Downtown NYC
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