Tom Cruise and Fighter Pilots: Fact or Fiction?

Follow the journey of Hollywood icon Tom Cruise as we explore the misconceptions and realities surrounding his claimed fighter pilot experience.

Does Tom Cruise Really Have the Expertise to Be a Fighter Pilot?

It's a case of No and Yes. Technically, he could qualify with the prerequisites, but as of now, it's a no. This dénouement isn't entirely black and white, and it depends on the specifics of what you designate as a 'fighter jet."

Buying a Fighter Jet: A Viable Reality?

Philosophically, if Tom Cruise wanted to own a fighter jet, he is capable of doing so. An F-86 Sabre from 1950 can be acquired for around $100,000 to $250,000, and he could infinitely within a few weeks becoming proficient enough to handle the aircraft. In this theoretical scenario, he would possess the technical skill to operate a fighter jet, even if it's an older model.

The Complexity of Flying an F/A-18 Hornet

However, when it comes to the F/A-18 Hornet, a modern fighter jet used by the U.S. Navy, the situation is markedly different. Even if Tom Cruise manages to secure a Hornet, he would need to undergo rigorous training. What about his flying skills in the film Top Gun? While in that movie, he only had a basic understanding of the controls, real-life flying would require a completely different approach.

First, he'd need to find a Hornet that is available for either rental or purchase. Unfortunately, many Hornets being phased out are far beyond their useful lifespan, making them unsafe to fly out of the showroom. Even if he could manage to secure one in a safe condition, the costly maintenance would be his next challenge.

Maintaining an F/A-18 Hornet

The F/A-18 Hornet is a complex aircraft that requires a dedicated team to maintain. Regular maintenance alone can be extraordinarily expensive, costing more than an entire P-51D. The F/A-18 has computerized engines which significantly reduce the risk of damaging the aircraft, but the cost of owning and operating such a machine is colossal, totaling millions of dollars per year.

Superficial Start-Up and Complex Procedures

Starting an F/A-18 Hornet can be quite a complex process, even for those with prior experience. The start-up routine includes:

Ensure the battery is on. Start the APU (Auxiliary Power Unit). Crank engine 2 and wait for 20 seconds, then set to idle. Repeat for engine 1. Successfully, the plane is started. This process pales in comparison to the simplicity of starting a Cessna or even the P-51D.

Despite these complications, starting the Hornet is still considerably easier than starting a P-51D. The real challenge lies in setting up the plane for every single flight, a process that can consume a significant amount of time. In the meantime, an F-86 Sabre could already be taxiing to the runway and soaring into the skies.

Economic Considerations and Philanthropic Actions

Given the economic climate, it would be unlikely for Tom Cruise to invest in owning and maintaining a Hornet. However, he might consider tracking down one of the first Hornets into Iraqi airspace and restoring it, then auctioning it off for charity. Such an idea aligns with his charismatic personality and philanthropic inclination.

In conclusion, while Tom Cruise could theoretically fly a Hornet, the practical and economic realities make it less likely. Nonetheless, his fictional flying skills in movies like Top Gun remain one of the most entertaining aspects of his films.