The Exciting TOPGUN Experience at Palm Springs Air Museum in 2026

The TOPGUN Experience at Palm Springs Air Museum

The Palm Springs Air Museum is gearing up for a thrilling event that celebrates both aviation history and the blockbuster film franchise, Top Gun. On November 7, 2026, the museum is set to unveil the iconic F/A-18 Super Hornet, famously flown by Captain Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell in Top Gun: Maverick. This particular aircraft, known as Bureau Number 165536, is one of the earliest models produced and has a storied past.

During its service, this Super Hornet contributed to various advanced aviation programs, notably the testing and development of the F-35 Lightning II. It transitioned to the Blue Angels flight demonstration team, showcasing its capabilities in front of cheering crowds before making its illustrious appearance in the recent Top Gun film. Now, it embarks on a new chapter at the Palm Springs Air Museum, becoming the first F/A-18 Super Hornet to be permanently displayed to the public outside of a military context.

The event kicks off with a Water Salute and a short dedication ceremony, making it a special moment for aviation enthusiasts and movie fans alike. Following the unveiling, attendees will enjoy birthday cake to commemorate the museum's 30th anniversary. In addition to the Super Hornet, the museum will also feature Darkstar, another aircraft from the recent Top Gun movie, along with an operational F/A-18 from VFA-122 for a complete immersive experience.

Exclusive Evening Experiences

To further celebrate this occasion, the museum is offering a series of evening events titled the TOPGUN F/A-18 Super Hornet Visitor Experiences, set to take place on select Saturdays from November 2026 to April 2027. During these 90-minute sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to listen to distinguished speakers who are experienced F/A-18 pilots. The scheduled dates and speakers include:

- November 7, 2026: Lieutenant Commander Evan "Squints" Goss, a combat veteran and instructor pilot with a rich military background.
- November 28, 2026: Commander Frank "Walleye" Weisser (Ret.), a former Blue Angels pilot who contributed to several aerial scenes in Top Gun: Maverick.
- January 2, 2027: Captain Jeremy "Silas" DeBons, a test pilot with vast experience in aviation safety and advancements.
- March 27, 2027: Captain A.J. "Face" McFarland (Ret.), an elite test pilot known for steering significant flight programs.
- April 17, 2027: Commander Cassidi "Butch" Reese, who has extensive combat experience in various missions.

These exclusive experiences offer attendees a unique opportunity to hear first-hand accounts of flight operations, get a close look at the cockpit, and even enjoy light refreshments. Tickets for these events are priced at $65 per person, with discounted rates for Palm Springs Air Museum members.

About the Palm Springs Air Museum

The Palm Springs Air Museum is a shrine to aviation history, showcasing over 75 historic aircraft from various eras, including World War II and the Cold War. Spanning 91,000 square feet, it provides an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. General admission fees range from $24 to $26, with free entry for children 12 and under when accompanied by a paying adult. Active-duty military personnel and their families can also access the museum for free with a valid ID.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the museum's official website or reach out via phone. This remarkable event marks a significant milestone for the Palm Springs Air Museum and is an occasion no aviation enthusiast or Top Gun fan should miss!