Even nonpilots can look at an F-104 Lockheed Starfighter and see it as the quintessential definition of a fighter jet. The shockingly short, almost straight wing is a contrast to the delta and swept designs of its day. The leading edge is literally razor-sharp, a characteristic that compelled Air Force mechanics to utilize a cover to protect them from injury. And the fuselage, with its aerodynamic wasp waist, is merely a vessel to house a monster jet engine—or, as the airplane was touted by Lockheed, “missile with a man in it.”
A Starfighter Reborn
Key Takeaways:
- Retired airline pilot Rick Svetkoff founded Starfighters Inc., initially performing airshows with F-104 Starfighters after an early career change.
- The company transitioned to a partnership with NASA, using F-104s to test commercial spacecraft hardware and provide specialized training for military and civilian pilots, including future astronauts.
- Svetkoff demonstrated remarkable perseverance, overcoming significant financial setbacks to establish his unique enterprise operating out of Kennedy Space Center.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
