Vietnam Memorial Flight (VMF) – Houston, TX
Flight Training Programs

Flight Training programs are currently available on the TA-4J Skyhawk and our Me-262 Schwalbe (replica) for certified pilots under our LODA on file with the FAA. The participant requirements for flight training are as follows:

TA-4J Skyhawk Flight Training – Student must have at least a current, valid FAA Private Pilot Certificate with a current and valid FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate. Student Pilot, Recreational Pilot, and Sport Pilot Certificates are not permitted.
Program Cost: $8,000 for Ground Training and 45 Minute Flight – 50% deposit required for scheduling

Me-262 Dual Control Flight Training – Student must have at least a current, valid FAA Private Pilot Certificate with a Multi-Engine Rating with a current and valid FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate. Student Pilot, Recreational Pilot, and Sport Pilot Certificates are not permitted.
Program Cost: $5,500 for Ground Training and 45 Minute Flight – 50% deposit required for scheduling

Currently the F-4 Phantom is off-line with heavy maintenance but may return to flight training status in the future. The details of that program are as follows:

F-4D Phantom Flight Training – Student must have at least a current, valid FAA Private Pilot Certificate with a Multi-Engine Rating with a current and valid FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate. Student Pilot, Recreational Pilot, and Sport Pilot Certificates are not permitted.
Program Cost: $18,000 for Ground Training and 45 Minute Flight – 50% deposit required for scheduling

If you qualify for either of these Flight Training programs, please email VMFlights@collingsfoundation.org for more information.

We no longer offer flight experiences on any aircraft for non-pilots or pilots without current medical certificates. 

Flight Training Programs for the Vietnam Memorial Flight

The Collings Foundation offers flight training programs in the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom and Douglas TA-4J Skyhawk. This once in a lifetime opportunity allows pilots to experience the most important jet fighter of the Vietnam/Cold War era. Just imagine what 35,000 lbs of thrust feels like in the F-4 Phantom! – Or the incredible roll-rate and nimble flight characteristics of the TA-4 Skyhawk!

The F-4 Phantom and TA-4J Skyhawk FLIGHT TRAINING PROGRAM takes place at the Collings Foundation’s Houston, Texas facility at Ellington Field (KEFD). Each participant will take part in academic sessions on the aircraft, which will include presentation safety procedures, ejection seat training and cockpit orientation, before donning a Nomex flight-suit and strapping into one of the most powerful civilian operated fighters in the world. Flights will be personally tailored to each student’s interests and capabilities. Flights last approximately 45 minutes in duration depending on fuel burn.

TA-4J Skyhawk Type Rating Training
Type Rating Training for the TA-4J Skyhawk is available for qualified pilots – this intensive course spanning multiple flights over the period of a week must be tailored to the experience level of the training pilot and will culminate in a practical flight test by a qualified FAA Designated Examiner. Please email VMFlights@collingsfoundation.org for more details.

Flight Training Programs for the Messerschmitt Me-262

The Collings Foundation is offering Unusual Attitude / Upset Flight Training in one of the most historically important and iconic jet aircraft – the Messerschmitt Me 262.

60 years after the birth of the Me 262, the influence of this revolutionary jet can still be seen in contemporary aircraft. Swept wings, automatic slats and the modular construction are examples of technology introduced in the Me 262. At the time, the 262 was a fighter of absolutely unrivaled potential. Thankfully, full production of the Me 262 did not start until 1944, and with fuel shortages and lack of materials it was too late to effect the outcome of WWII.

A very limited continuation production run sponsored by the Messerschmitt Foundation recreated four aircraft to exacting standards from an original Me 262 trainer. The only modern concessions are CJ-610 jet engines, modern avionics and improved materials and metals. Currently, there are only three Me 262 recreations flying: two in the United States and one in Germany. Our Me 262 “White 1” carries a continuation of the original work numbers assigned, with updated engines and safety equipment.

Messerschmitt Me 262 Unusual Attitude / Upset Training Flight Training takes place at the Collings Foundation’s Houston, Texas facility. Requirements: FAA Private Pilot license or greater with a multi-engine rating and current 3rd class medical.
Cost: $5,500

For more details on this program, please email VMFlights@collingsfoundation.org.