Las Vegas: Where You Can (Almost) Fly Like a Superhero

In Las Vegas, there's a chance to experience personal flight, but it's not quite the city-wide aerial adventure you might imagine. A new venture plans to open a flight center near Las Vegas in 2026, where thrill-seekers can pay $500 for a short ride in an Airscooter aircraft. The company behind this, Zapata, also aims to sell these aircraft privately for $250, 000. Frankie Zapata, the founder, is no stranger to innovative flying machines. He's known for crossing the English Channel on a jet-powered flyboard, though his attempt to repeat the feat with the Airscooter ended in a crash. Despite this setback, Zapata has continued testing and showcasing the Airscooter, with plans for the Las Vegas flight center moving forward. Before taking to the skies, customers will get a taste of the experience through a simulator. Then, they'll have about 20 minutes of training flight, followed by another 20 minutes of less restricted flying within the center's boundaries. The good news is that no pilot's license is required, as the Airscooter complies with specific FAA regulations.The Airscooter itself is more like a high-tech drone than a traditional helicopter. It has a top speed of 63 mph and a cruising speed of 50 mph, powered by a hybrid gas-electric system. Its five-gallon tank can keep it flying for up to two hours, but it has a weight limit of 260 pounds, so not everyone can hop on for a ride. However, don't expect to use the Airscooter for your daily commute, especially in the city. FAA regulations restrict ultralight aircraft like the Airscooter from flying over congested areas or during non-daylight hours. They're also meant for recreational purposes only. So, while you can enjoy flying around the Las Vegas flight center, you won't be soaring above the city's famous landmarks, regardless of how much you spend.