First-Hand Accounts
Pilot Interviews
Hear firsthand accounts from the pilots who flew the world’s most incredible supersonic aircraft. From Cold War interceptors to modern stealth fighters, these interviews offer rare insight into what it’s really like to fly at the edge of human capability.
United States
From the Tomcat to the Lightning II — seven American cockpits
Scariest Flight in the Tomcat
A former F-14D pilot shares his most harrowing experience flying the legendary Tomcat, including carrier operations and high-G combat maneuvering.
The Most Fun Jet to Fly
RaZZ Larson, former F-22 Demo Team pilot, explains what makes the Raptor the most exhilarating fighter jet in the world. Supermaneuverability, stealth, and pure performance.
Flying at Mach 3.3
Colonel Richard Graham shares what it was like to fly the fastest air-breathing aircraft ever built. Includes the famous “speed check” story.
The LA Speed Check
Major Brian Shul tells the legendary speed check story — one of the most famous pilot stories in aviation history.
Air Superiority Pilot
An F-15C Eagle pilot discusses the aircraft’s unmatched air-to-air combat record and what it’s like to fly one of history’s most successful fighters.
September 11 Intercept Mission
F-16 pilots recall the extraordinary mission to intercept Flight 93 on September 11, 2001 — a mission they were prepared to give their lives for.
Inside the Cockpit
A pilot interview conducted inside an actual F-35 cockpit. Hear about the revolutionary helmet-mounted display, sensor fusion, and what makes this 5th-gen fighter unique.
Europe
Typhoon, Rafale and the queen of the Atlantic
Securing the Skies
A Spanish Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon pilot discusses Quick Reaction Alert missions, intercepting unknown aircraft, and the Typhoon’s incredible performance.
India’s First Female Rafale Pilot
India’s only woman Rafale fighter pilot shares her journey from training to flying one of Europe’s most advanced multirole fighters.
A Day in the Life of a Concorde Captain
Captain John Hutchinson takes us through a typical day flying Concorde at Mach 2 across the Atlantic. The only civilian aircraft on this list — but what an aircraft.
Russia
A rare Western look inside a Soviet legend
Western Pilot’s Perspective
Robert Hierl, one of the few Western pilots to fly the MiG-29, shares his experience with this legendary Soviet fighter — its strengths, weaknesses, and what surprised him most.
Meet The Legends
Want the full stories behind these voices? Read the profiles of history’s greatest supersonic pilots — from Chuck Yeager to Pete Knight.