Aircraft Evolution (UP)

Horrible, absolutely infuriating level that never should have been put in the game. Luckily, there's an easy way to just plow through it. Replay level 3 until you have enough credits to have the second fighter unlocked and fully upgraded, especially the armor so it can survive a mine hit or two. Purchase a bunch of repair kits and some extra gas. Start the minefield level and just keep flying straight through while tapping A to speed up. Don't even bother with maneuvering around the mines very much. Every time you take damage, just insta-heal with a repair kit. The second fighter is fast enough to get through within the time limit.

This method also works on the 2 later minefield levels in Eras 2 and 3.

I was able to get this using the default aircraft. Only thing I had to do was fully upgrade its speed and made sure I had enough fuel packs. I only needed to use one, but be on the safe side and have at least two. Crossed the finish line with 12 seconds to spare.

Hold to boost the entire time and press to fuel when you're about to run out.

Not sure difference the difficulty makes here, but you can do this on easy difficulty.