Stallion 51, located at the Kissimmee Gateway Airport in Kissimmee, Florida, is a premier aviation facility that offers a unique and thrilling experience focused on one of the most iconic aircraft of World War II: the P-51 Mustang. Stallion 51 provides rare hands-on flight experiences, making it a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs.
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Stallion 51
3951 Merlin Drive
Kissimmee, FL 34741
+1 407 846 4400
Stallion 51 is not a museum, they offer warbird rides and flying school.
Fleet
| N39UA N51LW/44-74497/SX-H NL351DT/44-74502A/LL N851D/44-84745/DS N5632V/52-8218 | Aero Vodochody L-39C Albatros North American TF-51D Mustang North American TF-51D Mustang North American TF-51D Mustang North American T-6G Texan |
Background of Stallion 51
Founded in 1987 by renowned pilot Lee Lauderback, Stallion 51 has become an internationally recognized center for P-51 Mustang flight training, experience flights, and aircraft maintenance. The organization was created to honor the legacy of the P-51 Mustang, which played a crucial role in World War II as a long-range fighter and escort aircraft, contributing significantly to the success of Allied air operations.
Stallion 51’s mission is not only to preserve these historic aircraft but also to provide the unique opportunity for enthusiasts to experience the thrill of flying one of these legendary fighters.
Key Features and Offerings
Stallion 51 provides an unparalleled aviation experience by allowing visitors to not just see, but actually fly in the iconic P-51 Mustang. Some of the highlights include:
- P-51 Mustang Flight Experiences:
- Stallion 51 offers orientation flights in their meticulously restored dual-cockpit P-51 Mustangs, allowing participants to take control of the aircraft under the guidance of an experienced pilot.
- These flights include a detailed pre-flight briefing, hands-on flight experience, and a post-flight debriefing. The sessions are designed to accommodate all levels of experience, from first-time flyers to seasoned pilots.
- Flight packages typically range from 30 minutes to over an hour, providing the chance to experience aerobatic maneuvers, formation flying, and even some simulated combat tactics.
- T-6 Texan Flight Training:
- In addition to the P-51 Mustang, Stallion 51 also offers flight experiences in the North American T-6 Texan, which was a popular World War II training aircraft.
- These flights serve as an introduction to vintage warbird flying and can also be used as a stepping stone for those looking to progress to flying the P-51.
- Pilot Training and Checkouts:
- Stallion 51 is also a specialized training facility for pilots seeking P-51 Mustang checkouts and advanced training. They offer custom training programs to help pilots master the complexities of handling a high-performance aircraft like the Mustang.
- Training includes ground instruction, flight maneuvers, emergency procedures, and formation flying.
- Aircraft Maintenance and Restoration:
- The facility also focuses on the restoration and maintenance of vintage aircraft, ensuring that their fleet of P-51 Mustangs and T-6 Texans remains in top flying condition.
- Stallion 51’s expert team provides services for aircraft owners looking to restore or maintain their own warbirds.
- Aviation Events and Demonstrations:
- Stallion 51 frequently participates in airshows and aviation events across the United States, showcasing the capabilities of the P-51 Mustang and allowing the public to see these historic aircraft in action.
Visitor Information
- Location: Kissimmee Gateway Airport, Kissimmee, Florida, approximately 20 minutes from Orlando.
- Booking and Reservations: Due to the specialized nature of their offerings, flights and training sessions are by appointment only. It is recommended to book well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Pricing: The flight experience packages vary in price, generally starting in the thousands of dollars, given the rarity and complexity of flying a P-51 Mustang.
- Additional Amenities: The facility includes a gift shop, where visitors can purchase aviation memorabilia, apparel, and personalized videos of their flight experience.
Significance of Stallion 51
Stallion 51 is not just a flight experience provider; it is a living museum dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of one of World War II’s most significant aircraft. By offering hands-on experiences, the organization keeps the spirit of the P-51 Mustang alive, allowing a new generation to appreciate its role in aviation history.