AO's fleet of F-5 aircraft is the only such fleet available on the civil market. These are supersonic fighter aircraft that have been modified to emulate the systems of even higher performance fighters. Our fleet, formally of the Royal Canadian Air Force, was modified specifically as training aircraft for F-18s and as such have been modified with F-18 avionics including Heads Up Displays.
F-5 Fleet
F-5 Advanced Tactical Training (ATT)
Aerospace Operation’s ATT Course is the most advanced training available to civil aviators anywhere in the world. Train alongside the highest level of professionals - TOPGUN fighter pilots, NASA astronauts and test pilots who are the recognized experts by government agencies, manufacturers and innovators around the world for advancing the capabilities of aerospace performance. Whether you’re aiming for next level of performance or want to experience what only a fraction of pilots ever do…this is your chance to join the few who fly at the edge of human capability. The 4-level course series is conducted at the legendary Mojave Air and Space Port in Mojave, CA.
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Level I - MACH-T / SUPRT
For aviators seeking an understanding of high performance aerodynamics, handling qualities and aircraft systems unavailable elsewhere, the Level I course includes an introduction to the F-5 and its handling characteristics. The course includes transonic and high altitude flights.
At completion, you will have earned:
Lifetime membership in the Fenix Squadron, which includes exclusive event invitations, gear, and the opportunity to operate with other elite flyers
Opportunity to progress to Level II and earn an F-5 FAA Rating
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Level II - F-5 FAA Rating
Continue building your tactical flying skills and earn an F-5 FAA Rating.
At completion, you will have earned:
Checkride and rating in the F-5 aircraft
Opportunity to progress to Level III and earn your Qualified Wingman
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Level III - Formation: Qualified Wingman
Earn your Qualified Wingman in this tactical flying course. The course includes initial FAST training tailored to F-5 plus TacForm fundamentals and maneuvering.
At completion, you will have earned:
Qualified Wingman
Opportunity to progress to Level IV and learn basic fight maneuvers
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Level IV - Advanced Handling, Low Level Tactics, Basic Fighter Maneuvers
Designed for aviators requiring the highest level of training and challenge for their skill set, Level IV includes includes three distinguished flying profiles:
Level IV - A: Advanced Handling
Level IV - L: Low Level Tactics
Level IV - B: Basic Fighter Maneuvers
At completion, you will have earned:
A special commemoration for completion of the full F-5 Course series
F-5 Maintenance
AO’s F-5 maintenance is second to none. The F-5’s are maintained by AO and Circle Air Group (CAG, https://www.circleag.com ). CAG is a FAA Part 145 certified repair station with multiple aircraft certifications. Both AO and CAG staff have been trained extensively by industry professionals on the maintenance of the F-5. In 2023, CAG acquired the remaining Royal Canadian Air Force supply of F-5 parts. CAG has a large part store and overhaul capability.
As the aircraft all hold both DoD and FAA airworthiness they are maintained to highest government standards and checked annually by both organizations. This includes current ejection seat pyrotechnics per DoD tech orders. There are simply no more well maintained aircraft of this type in the world.
