Virgin Experience Days Introductory Flying Lesson

Take to the skies with an introductory flying lesson that offers a first taste of light aircraft training. With one-to-one instruction from a Civil Aviation Authority licensed instructor, this adventure gives participants the chance to learn the basics of flight before heading up for time in a two-seater aircraft.

During the lesson, there is the opportunity to take the controls while airborne, with flying time counting towards a Private Pilot's licence. Up to 30 minutes is spent in the air, including taxiing and landing, making this a memorable choice for anyone drawn to aviation or looking to try something out of the ordinary.

What's included

• Introduction to flying, aircraft controls and safety
• One-to-one training from a CAA licensed instructor in a two-seater aircraft
• 30 minutes flying lesson (including taxiing and landing) with the opportunity to take the controls

What happens on the day

Your flying lesson starts with a pre-flight briefing from your qualified instructor. This covers safety and an introduction to some of the controls.

Once in the plane, you are given headphones so that you can hear conversations between your instructor and air traffic control. You will also be able to communicate with each other so you can be guided through your first lesson. Once in the air, you will be able to take the controls, but your pilot will take over to land the plane at the airfield and taxi back.

Participant guidelines

• To ensure proper weight distribution and safety in the light aircraft, certain weight and height restrictions will apply. These restrictions vary depending on the specific aircraft and flight experience
• Minimum age: 12, 14 at Tatenhill, Coventry Airport and Dunkeswell Aerodrome (under 18s need parental/guardian consent)
• Minimum height: 4ft 10in
• Maximum height: 6ft 4in, 6ft 6in at Dunkeswell Aerodrome
• Maximum weight: 12 stone at County Down, 12 to 13 stone at Chester, 14 to 18 stone at other locations
• Participants should be in reasonable health and agile enough to climb into the aircraft
• These are guidelines only and we ask that you check any queries at the time of booking

Please note

• Spectators are usually welcome, without charge, but will not be able to accompany you in the plane. Facilities for spectators vary between centres, so you should check with the centre when booking
• The experience content, equipment used and restrictions may vary according to location
• Due to the continued increase in fuel costs, there is temporary fuel surcharge of £10.00 at Kidlington, payable to the supplier on the day of your experience

Availability

• Your voucher is valid for 12 months from the date of issue
• Flying lessons take place all year round and are normally available on any day of the week. Availability varies by venue
• We recommend you book at least four weeks in advance to ensure that dates are available. This is only a guideline and we advise you to book as early as possible to ensure that dates are available before the expiry date listed on your voucher. All bookings are subject to availability
• You should allow 1 hour for your whole experience, but the flight (from taxi to landing) will last approximately 25-30 minutes

Locations

• Northamptonshire - Brackley
• Cambridgeshire - Peterborough
• Cambridgeshire - Cambridge
• Cornwall - Bodmin
• Derbyshire - Eggington
• Devon - Honiton
• Essex - Great Dunmow, Stapleford Tawney
• Kent - Lydd
• Lancashire - Blackpool
• Northamptonshire – Sywell, Northampton
• Northumberland - Morpeth
• Oxfordshire - Kidlington
• Staffordshire - Burton on Trent, Stourbridge
• Surrey - Redhill
• Wales - Caernafon
• Chichester - Goodwood
• West Sussex - Shoreham by Sea

Delivery

Once you have purchased your experience you will be sent an e-voucher and booking information to your selected email address directly from Virgin Experience Days. You will receive your voucher within 1 working day. This does not include weekends.

About this experience

Who is it for

An adventurous experience suited to anyone aged 12 and over with an interest in aviation, subject to the stated height, weight and health guidelines.

Occasion and use

A distinctive gift for birthdays or special occasions, offering a first flying lesson with time at the controls and flight time that counts towards a Private Pilot's licence.

Rackhams Reference : TTGG2ICXNE