Should I sell my micro-business for untold gazillions and US Congress allow, perhaps I'd shout myself a F-22, the most exciting aeroplane flying on this planet I believe. I guess I could indeed swap the Extra 330 for a F-22!
Not sure how may of you witnessed the F-22 perform at Avalon, but it was mind-blowing! When you see such a big aeroplane doing flat descending turns, back-flips (whilst still moving forwards) and tail slides, you just know you are witnessing something very very special.
In my opinion, there are now just two classes of aeroplane - F-22 and targets! At Avalon three years ago, I managed to have a chat to a couple of Raptor drivers, one being a Aussie, based up in Alaska. I asked, "I guess you guys sit up at FL600 super cruising and swoop down on your prey?", "No sir, we dynamically change altitude to avoid detection and engage on our terms" was the answer. How cool I thought! I was advised at the time that there were 150 Raptor pilots and only one qualified display pilot - the reason the F-22 could not be displayed back in 2011 due to conflicting engagements for this display pilot.
Anyway, I so enjoyed watching this amazing bird of prey fly last year at Avalon - it was a jaw dropping show!
One just can't help be super envious of those lucky and talented few who get to fly and operate this incredible machine.
