Lockheed A-12

New York CityUnited States of America 40° N · 73° W

The Lockheed A-12, an iconic symbol of Cold War aviation and technological innovation, stands prominently on the flight deck of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space…

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Lockheed A-12
A-12 OXCART Flight Suit Boots on display
Close-up image of A-12 OXCART flight suit boots used by pilots, showcasing historical aviation gear.
A-12 OXCART flight suit gloves used by CIA pilots
Close-up image of A-12 OXCART flight suit gloves, an artifact related to CIA history used by elite high-altitude reconnaissance pilots.
A-12 OXCART Helmet used by CIA pilots
Close-up image of the A-12 OXCART helmet worn by CIA pilots during reconnaissance missions, showcasing the distinctive design and technology used in high-altitude aircraft
A-12 OXCART flight spurs used by Dr. Albert D. Wheelon for safe ejection
Image of the A-12 OXCART flight spurs presented to Dr. Albert D. Wheelon, first Director of Science and Technology at CIA, designed to secure pilot's feet during emergency ejection for a compact and safe exit.
A-12 pilot wearing a protective pressure suit with thermal insulation and life support system
A-12 pilot wearing a specialized protective pressure suit designed with thermal insulation, pressure control, cooling, and life support system to provide protection during high-altitude bailout and against extreme temperatures.
Mothballed A-12 reconnaissance aircrafts in storage after retirement in 1968
Image of mothballed A-12 reconnaissance aircrafts stored after their retirement in 1968, showing multiple planes lined up in a large outdoor storage area.
A-12 full scale model prepared for radar cross section measurements
Full scale model of A-12 aircraft undergoing radar cross section measurements for stealth evaluation
Side profile view of Archangel 1 aircraft designed by Kelly Johnson
Archangel 1 aircraft design created by Kelly Johnson, which was the basis for the development of the A-12 reconnaissance aircraft
Design of Archangel 2 aircraft by Kelly Johnson
Illustrative design of the Archangel 2 aircraft, created by renowned aeronautical engineer Kelly Johnson, showcasing its unique structural features
Lockheed A-12 wind-tunnel test models with canard and final configurations at NASA Langley
Wind-tunnel test models of Lockheed A-12, the predecessor of SR-71 Blackbird, at NASA Langley featuring an interesting canard configuration and the more familiar final design.
CIA A-12 pilots and managers group photo
Group photo of CIA’s A-12 aircraft pilots and managers including Layton, Sullivan, Vojvodich, Barrett, Weeks, Collins, Ray, BGen Ledford, Skliar, Perkins, Holbury, Kelly, and squadron commander Col. Slater.
Lockheed A12 aircraft undergoing radar testing at Area 51 desert facility
Image showing Lockheed A12 spy aircraft during radar testing at the secretive Area 51 desert facility

The A-12 and the Intrepid Museum

The Lockheed A-12, sometimes called the “Blackbird,” is a Cold War reconnaissance aircraft displayed on the open-air flight deck of the USS Intrepid at Pier 86 on Manhattan’s West Side. Its matte-black titanium skin and slender, delta-winged profile reflect the technologies developed for high-speed, high-altitude reconnaissance.

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum also displays the Space Shuttle Enterprise and Concorde SST, as well as the Growler submarine. Its Midtown Manhattan location can be reached by subway, bus, and ferry.

History

Lockheed’s Skunk Works developed the A-12 for the CIA in the 1960s. First flown in 1962, it was built for high-risk surveillance missions and could reach speeds over Mach 3 and fly above 85,000 feet. Another account gives its top speed as over Mach 3.2. Only 13 were produced, and only a handful survive today.

When introduced, the A-12 was the world’s fastest, highest-flying operational jet. Its titanium frame, stealthy profile, and Pratt & Whitney J58 engines helped it evade detection and outpace threats. It played an essential role in U.S. intelligence gathering from 1963 to 1968. Its design led directly to the SR-71 Blackbird and influenced later stealth and reconnaissance platforms (worldxplorr.com).

What to see

Visitors can view the A-12 up close on the flight deck, examine its aerodynamic lines and titanium skin, and explore interpretive panels, videos, and multimedia presentations about its development, missions, and technological legacy. Guided tours also cover its history and innovations. The exhibit is used as a focus for STEM education and Cold War history.

The museum’s conservation team uses protective coatings, routine inspections, and environmental monitoring to help safeguard the aircraft during its outdoor display (holidify.com).

Visiting information

Hours

  • Standard hours Daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
  • Extended hours Hours may extend to 6:00 PM on weekends and holidays during summer or peak periods; one schedule specifies April–September. Check current hours before visiting.
  • Last entry One hour before closing.
  • Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Tickets

  • Adults $33–$36
  • Seniors (65+) and college students $31–$34
  • Children (5–12) $24–$26
  • Children under 5 Free
  • Discounts Available for military personnel, veterans, NYC residents, CityPASS® holders, and through select promotions.
  • Purchase Online in advance is recommended for entry and to avoid lines.

Access to the A-12 is included with general admission.

Location and transport

The museum is at Pier 86, West 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue, Manhattan, New York, NY 10036.

  • Subway A, C, or E to 42nd Street–Port Authority, followed by a short walk or bus ride west to Pier 86.
  • Bus M42, M50, and M34, as well as crosstown lines, stop near the museum or 12th Avenue.
  • Ferry NY Waterway ferries from New Jersey dock adjacent to the museum.
  • Parking Limited nearby; public transportation is strongly recommended. Public transit or rideshare is also suggested.

Accessibility and amenities

  • Elevators and ramps provide access to the flight deck and main exhibits.
  • Accessible and family restrooms are available throughout the museum.
  • Sensory bags and lightweight stools are available for visitors who may need them.
  • Nursing mothers’ rooms are available on site.
  • Audio guides and assistive listening devices are available for visitors with hearing impairments.
  • The museum offers guided and audio tours, family programming, the Exploreum, and hands-on science exhibits.
  • The Aviator Grill serves American fare with views of Pier 86; the Intrepid Marketplace offers quick-service classics.
  • Gift shops sell aviation- and space-themed gifts and memorabilia.
  • Flight simulators are available for an additional fee.
  • Enhanced cleaning, hand-sanitizing stations, and timed entry protocols are among the health and safety measures described. Check current COVID-19 guidelines and visitor information.

Tips

  • Arrive early on a weekday for a quieter visit.
  • The flight deck is outdoors; bring sunscreen or rain gear as needed.
  • Late afternoon offers natural light for photography.
  • Consider a docent-led or audio tour.
  • Allow 2–3 hours to explore the A-12, Space Shuttle Enterprise, Growler submarine, and other exhibits.
  • Check current hours, ticket deals, and health and safety protocols before visiting. The original guide also recommends downloading the Audiala app and following the Intrepid Museum on social media for updates and virtual content.

Nearby places

  • Hudson River Park Waterfront walking and biking paths.
  • DeWitt Clinton Park Urban green space and sports fields.
  • Chelsea Market Food hall and shops, 0.7 miles south.
  • Hudson Yards Shopping and The Vessel, 0.8 miles east.
  • Times Square 1 mile east.
  • Central Park and the Met 2.2 miles northeast.
  • Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Accessible by ferry (Headout).

Frequently asked questions

Is the Lockheed A-12 included with general admission?
Yes. Access to the A-12 is part of a museum ticket.

Can visitors enter or touch the A-12?
No. The aircraft is for viewing only; entry and physical contact are not permitted.

Are educational programs about the A-12 available?
Yes. The museum offers interactive learning and STEM activities for all ages.

Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. The exhibits and family programming are intended to engage visitors of all ages.

Are special events held around the A-12?
Check the museum’s events calendar for current and upcoming programs.