MEET THE LEGENDARY TA-4J SKYHAWK

Small in size. Legendary in performance.

The Douglas A-4 Skyhawk is one of the most iconic attack jets of the Vietnam War. Designed by legendary aircraft engineer Ed Heinemann, this compact, carrier-ready aircraft became a workhorse of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, flying more combat missions over Vietnam than any other carrier-based attack aircraft.

Known as “The Scooter” and “Heinemann’s Hot Rod,” the A-4 earned a reputation for its incredible agility, rugged design and ability to deliver serious power from a remarkably small airframe. Throughout the Vietnam War, Skyhawks flew precision attack missions, provided close air support and operated from aircraft carriers during some of the conflict’s most demanding missions.

Today, the Collings Foundation / Vietnam War Flight Museum keeps this legendary aircraft flying in authentic Vietnam-era configuration. Air Show guests will experience the Skyhawk’s impressive carrier-borne handling, high-energy climbouts and rolls, along with flight profiles inspired by its historic Vietnam-era missions.

See this incredible piece of aviation history take to the skies at the 2026 Florida International Air Show.