– China’s Lanying R6000 drone is purportedly intended for non military uses, but concept drawings that displayed Chinese military logos on the wings and body of the aircraft sparked worries that it may be used for military transportation, surveillance, reconnaissance or attacks. Tiltrotor aircraft such as the Lanying R6000 combine the flying speed of airplanes […]

Last week, we told you about a great hotel for drone pilots this winter. That was the Orlando World Center Marriott, which is the first hotel to host its own recurring drone show. But as for a hotel that’s great for drone pilots year round? That’s the Hotel Polaris, which opened on Nov. 14, 2024 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

In addition to reporting on the drone industry for more than 10 years, I’ve also been a travel reporter. And the Hotel Polaris offers a drone-pilot-approved amenity that I’ve never seen before in the U.S.: a flight simulator.

If you’re a drone enthusiast or professional pilot looking for a hotel that caters to your unique passions, the newly opened Hotel Polaris at the U.S. Air Force Academy might just be your perfect landing spot. Combining state-of-the-art aviation amenities with luxurious accommodations, this property is a dream destination for tech-savvy travelers who love to explore the skies — virtually or otherwise. There’s no better flight simulator than this.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Hotel Polaris, including how you can test out the drone flight simulator:

How the Hotel Polaris came about

The Hotel Polaris is located at the U.S. Air Force Academy, though anyone can book a stay there.

The whole project came about through a public-private partnership between the Association of Graduates and Air Force Academy Foundation, the City of Colorado Springs, Blue & Silver Development Partners and Provident Resources Group.

CoralTree Hospitality manages the hotel. That management group is famously behind other niche, luxury properties in standout locations including the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa in Indian Wells, Calif. It’s even affiliated with some major hotel brands including The Woodlands Resort in Houston (part of the Curio Collection by Hilton) and the Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country.

But you came to learn about the Hotel Polaris, which takes things to new heights, literally.

Flight simulators at the Hotel Polaris

The Hotel Polaris is the only hotel in the United States with immersive flight simulators. With it, guests can step into the cockpit of an F-16 fighter jet or a Boeing 737 Max. These advanced simulators put basic drone simulators like the DRL SIM and Zephyr flight simulator (which you would typically just use on your computer at home) to shame.

The hotel’s three simulators deliver a tactile and visually stunning experience. With components like seats, throttles, switches, pedals and yoke actually sourced from real aircraft — combined with a 200-degree HD wraparound screen — this is as close as you’ll get to real flying without leaving the ground.

For drone pilots, these simulators provide an opportunity to hone navigation skills, understand aviation dynamics and immerse themselves in other types of flight beyond just drones. As far as the actual flights, you can choose a range of flying styles. You might go for an F-16 dog fight, or you might try your hand at simulating what it’s like taking off from Denver International Airport in the 737 Max.  

The hotel’s aviation-inspired design

Hotel Polaris doesn’t just cater to aviators through its amenities; the entire property pays homage to the history and beauty of flight. From hanging replicas of the F-35 and B-2 Stealth Bomber in the lobby to aviation-inspired artwork throughout the rooms, the décor is a love letter to aerospace. The mid-century modern architecture, complemented by rich hues of blue and silver, echoes the Air Force Academy’s aesthetic. The whole vibe is both nostalgic and cutting-edge.

Luxury with a view at the Hotel Polaris

With 375 meticulously designed rooms, including exclusive 9th-floor Club Level accommodations, the hotel ensures every guest enjoys comfort and style. Club-level perks like a complimentary breakfast, evening drinks and elevated décor make it ideal for travelers seeking luxury.

Even if you’re not in the Club level, rooms are luxurious. Much of the furniture is custom, including built-in headboards and custom-made side tables. Rooms also have aviation-style artwork, which you’ll also see outside the rooms in public spaces too.

Look out for the mosaic of an airplane dog fight, hanging replicas of F-35 and a B-2 Stealth Bomber, photos from the Academy’s archives and a custom-made aerial sculpture inspired by the Ursa Minor constellation.

The property’s expansive windows offer views of the Front Range and the Academy’s historic campus. Just working from the public space could be inspiring setting for relaxation or creative brainstorming. Consider it perfect for drone photographers editing their footage.

Activities beyond the flight simulators

If you’re traveling with family or friends, Hotel Polaris offers something for everyone. That includes the Junior Cadets program for kids to glider-building activities and the dog-friendly K9 Cadets initiative. For those needing to unwind, the Ascend Spa & Wellness Center offers a range of treatments and wellness activities.

When it’s time to refuel, the hotel boasts six dining outlets. Those include The Aviator Bar for cocktails with a view, and Pamela’s for elevated American cuisine. Doolies soda shop has a fun, casual family-friendly vibe.

There’s also indoor meeting space, an outdoor pool and fitness center. Oh, and it’s pet-friendly.

Exploring the Pikes Peak region

The hotel’s location is convenient for people visiting the U.S. Air Force Academy, perhaps ahead of a college tour or for a graduation ceremony. It sits just outside the North Entrance of the Academy. But it’s not just for people affiliated with education.

All the onsite amenities are the perfect complement to a day spent capturing aerial footage of the nearby Rocky Mountains or the iconic U.S. Air Force Academy chapel.

Drone pilots and nature lovers alike will appreciate the hotel’s proximity to some of Colorado’s most scenic areas. The Rocky Mountains provide ample opportunity for exploration, while the city of Colorado Springs offers cultural and historical attractions.

The hotel is located about 30 minutes from the Colorado Springs Airport and an hour from Denver.

Hotel Polaris: is it worth it?

It just opened — and I haven’t stayed there myself — so I can’t say for sure whether the Hotel Polaris is worth it. But it’s certainly compelling.

Whether you’re a drone pilot looking to refine your skills or an aviation enthusiast seeking a one-of-a-kind stay, this hotel sets a new standard for traveler-friendly innovation. So pack your gear, charge your batteries and prepare to soar. Hotel Polaris could take your next vacation to new heights.

For more information or to book your stay, visit www.theHotelPolaris.com or call (833) 311-5581. Rates start at $229 per night.

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The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is looking for leaders in aviation and related industries (yes, that includes drones) to join what could be a transformative movement to shape the future of women in aviation. Applications are now open for the Bessie Coleman Women in Aviation Advisory Committee. This committee marks a new initiative named after the groundbreaking legacy of Bessie Coleman, who was the first African American and Native American woman to hold a pilot’s license.

What the Bessie Coleman Women in Aviation Advisory Committee entails

This Bessie Coleman Women in Aviation Advisory Committee was designed to develop actionable strategies to attract and retain more women and girls in aviation careers. It came about as part of a Women in Aviation Advisory Board (WIAAB) report titled “Breaking Barriers for Women in Aviation: A Flight Plan for the Future” which was released back in March 2022. 

With it, the FAA says it aims to assemble 25 leaders from across the aviation industry. That includes small business owners, aviation specialists and innovators.

Committee members will:

• Contribute unique perspectives to address gender disparities in aviation.
• Collaborate with other experts to design and implement actionable recommendations.
• Help shape the future workforce by inspiring the next generation of female aviators.

The committee will meet at least twice a year, with a focus on driving meaningful change to increase diversity in aviation.

Why the Bessie Coleman Women in Aviation Advisory Committee matters

Currently, women make up only 10.3% of total pilots as of Dec. 31, 2023, according to data released by the FAA. Within the drone industry, the rate is even more bleak. Just 8.4% of Remote Pilots (aka drone pilots) are female. That’s a total of 30,935 female drone pilots in the U.S.

For what it’s worth, the rate of female drone pilots is slightly higher now than it has been in past years, but not by much. The prior year, women made up 7.9% of all certified remote pilots. Women and Drones compiled a neat graphic visualizing that exact data, which you can see below:

The Bessie Coleman Women in Aviation Advisory Committee seeks to close these gaps by addressing challenges, increasing opportunities and inspiring a more inclusive future.

This initiative not only honors the contributions of pioneers like Bessie Coleman but also lays the groundwork for ongoing innovation in the aviation industry.

Who should apply (and how do you do it)?

The FAA is looking for a diverse range of nominees who can bring fresh ideas and perspectives. If you:

• Have experience in aviation or related fields,
• Are passionate about empowering women and girls in STEM and aviation careers,
• Want to contribute to driving positive change in a historically male-dominated industry,

…then this opportunity is for you.

Interested candidates can apply here to be part of this groundbreaking initiative. Applications are open now and will be considered through Monday, Dec. 23, 2024 at 6 p.m. ET. It’s all spelled out on the official application page, but expect to include a short biography, resume and statement.

And yes, men can apply too.

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