FAQS
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Frequently asked questions:
What is National Flight Academy's Mission?
National Flight Academy (NFA) is an interactive, fully immersive learning experience that focuses on inspiring youth to take a greater interest in STEM. To learn more about NFA, please visit our website. nationalflightacademy.com
What makes up the curriculum or educational program?
NFA’s curriculum includes aerodynamics, survival skills, navigation, aviation physiology and meteorology. However, National Flight Academy is more than just academics. A fully immersive gaming environment is used for students to participate in exciting missions. Each mission is aligned to Florida and National educational standards. An additional area of focus is 21st Century Core Competencies to emphasize essential skills such as collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking. The AXPs are challenged on a wide range of topics from basic three-dimensional physics and motion to more advanced concepts of aeronautical engineering and propulsions systems. These missions all play into enhancing the students’ education, ultimately enriching their understanding of STEM principles.
Which age groups are eligible to attend?
Students must be 10-17 years old and must be entering 6th – 12th grade. They must meet BOTH age and grade requirements to attend. Students who have graduated from 12th grade in the U.S. (or its equivalent) or who are 18 years old by the time of attendance are not eligible to participate.
What about the security and well-being of my child?
National Flight Academy provides round-the-clock security, both physical and electronic, whenever programs are in session. Access to the facility, including the sleeping and classroom areas, is carefully controlled using proximity card readers. Participants, called AMBITION eXperimental Pilots (AXPs), receive room keys similar to those in hotels, which allow them to enter their designated staterooms.
Who will supervise my child?
Each group of AXPs has a staff member called a “Flight Lead” who is present at all times. After hours, there are overnight staff resident advisors and security personnel, who stay on-site. Security cameras monitor common areas and all hallways.
Who will provide medical care to my child?
The facility has a fully qualified nursing team led by a registered nurse (RN), as well as a sickbay with four beds. They handle the storage and administration of any necessary medications. The safety and medical care protocols follow the standards set by the American Camp Association.
Are people with disabilities able to attend?
Yes, the facility is fully designed in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
How long is an NFA Deployment?
Our summer Deployment program is 6-days and 5-nights; the students will live aboard during their program.
What is your child's typical daily schedule while at camp?
0630
Reveille
0645 – 0730
Hygiene
0730 – 0830
Breakfast
0830 – 0930
Team Building Exercises
0930 – 1200
Off-Ship Excursions
1200 – 1300
Lunch
1900 – 1930
Squadron Time
1930 – 2000
Program Missions
2000 – 2100
Team Building Exercises
2100 – 2200
Hygiene
2200 – 2230
Lights Out
Where is the facility located?
National Flight Academy’s in-residence program is offered on our virtual aircraft carrier, AMBITION, located adjacent to the National Naval Aviation Museum aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida.
NFA’s address: 1 Fetterman Way, Pensacola FL, 32504
All visitors are required to follow current NAS Pensacola base security guidelines. All visitors without Department of Defense or Military ID credentials must enter through the West Gate of Naval Air Station Pensacola.
NAS Pensacola is open to the public 7 days a week, from 9:00 AM CST through 3:00 PM CST through the West Gate ONLY on the south end of Blue Angel Parkway. The Department of Defense (DoD) and the NAVY require visitors 18 years and older to show a single government issued identification card. State-issued driving license and government-issued passports are acceptable. Vehicle operators must have a valid driver’s license, and foreign nationals will need be escorted by a U.S. citizen.
Are National Flight Academy Programs accredited through the American Camp Association (ACA)?
Yes, the programs are accredited through the American Camp Association. ACA requirements ensure a safe and effective operation. Their review comprehensively covers all aspects of program operations including severe weather plans, health services, staff vetting, staff training, food service, and facility infrastructure. More information can be found at www.acacamps.org.
Is there a place for parents to interact?
Yes! Parents may communicate with their students by sending an email to AXP@nationalflightacademy.com with your student’s full name in the subject link.
Will my student have access to Personal Electronic Devices?
National Flight Academy has a “disconnect to connect” policy, meaning student’s won’t be allowed to use personal electronic devices (PEDs), including cellphones, during the program. When they check in, students will be asked to turn in their PEDs, which will be returned to them the evening before the program ends. This gives students time to charge their devices, take photos, and prepare for travel. For more details, please refer to our full PED Policy in the Parent Handbook.
What can family members of attending AXPs do in the Pensacola area?
While their child is on deployment, parents can explore the beautiful city of Pensacola, which has a rich history (450 years old) and is known as the “City of Five Flags”. Pensacola and the Gulf Coast are ideal for a family vacation due to the variety of activities and scenic beauty.
Things to do:
Great Restaurants – See local favorites below! McGuire’s Irish Pub, Fish House, and Flounders
Blue Wahoos Baseball and Museums (We are partial to the world famous National Naval Aviation Museum)
Pristine beaches for relaxation and fun
Catch a Blue Angels Practice Show!
For more details about hotels, things to do, and additional information, visit VISITPENSACOLA.COM