Backseat Experience: How You Should Prepare To Fly In A Combat Jet As A Passenger

I gave many "Dollar Rides" to AFROTC Cadets when I was a Pilot Training Instructor. We were restricted to a 20 minute ride with one takeoff and landing so we could do two Cadets on a tank of gas. They had minimal flight gear, but did have a helmet and oxygen mask they had to wear. I tried to determine the Cadet's level of nervousness and potential toleration for aerobatic maneuvers as we taxied out for takeoff. Most of the kids were up for the aerobatics and most wanted to fly the aircraft. A few were very nervous about the whole thing and asked me not to jerk the aircraft around. I tried to accommodate their requests either way. For those that wanted aerobatics, I tried to show them a few maneuvers that were more thrilling than any amusement park ride. Also let them fly a couple of turns and maybe a roll.

My hints on preparing for a ride in a fully aerobatic aircraft:
-Make sure all of your flight gear, personal protective equipment, etc., fit as well as possible.
-Understand how to operate the cockpit communications system so you can talk to the pilot.
-If you don't do well with aggressive amusement park rides, tell the pilot.
-If you want the "full Montie" and a chance to fly the aircraft, tell the pilot.
-If the flight maneuvers make you want to "blow your lunch", tell your pilot so he or she can knock it off.
-Eat normally before the flight, but you might want to avoid stuff like a chili-cheese burrito.
-Most of all set out to have fun.

We should all be so lucky to get a ride in a jet!

I laughed when the Instructors told us to 'grunt' when pulling G's. Well, they described it a little different but I thought it was funny at the time. I wasn't laughing during my ride but I would do it again in a heartbeat. Much respect for pilots and their ability to operate under extreme environmental conditions.