Light aircraft flights
Light aircraft flights: pick what suits you. Options for beginners, families or groups, in the finest settings there are.
Difficulty
Very easy
Duration
20–120 minutes
Location
Airfields and airports used for general aviation
Season
All year round, depending on the weather
What is a flight in a light aircraft?
Light aircraft are used for leisure flying, for sightseeing and for a first taste of aviation.
The flights are made in light machines flown by qualified pilots, under the operator's rules and the aviation regulations.
The experience can take in the views, a look round the aircraft or a demonstration flight.
Depending on the programme, some flights let you see the basic controls and how the aircraft is flown, with the instructor watching over.
Types of experience
Scenic flight
An air tour built around the scenery and the sights.
An introduction to aviation
A look round the aircraft and at the basic principles of flight.
Discovery flight
An experience for anyone wanting a first contact with aviation.
Private flight
An experience kept for one person or a small group.
As a gift
A package given as a present for a special occasion.
How does it work?
Briefing
The pilot goes over the safety rules and the route.
Looking round the aircraft
You get to see the main parts of the aeroplane.
Take-off
The aeroplane takes off from the airfield runway.
The flight
You follow the route agreed on and take in the landscape.
Landing
The outing ends back at the starting point.
Who is a light aircraft flight for?
Beginners
No previous flying experience is needed.
People keen on aviation
Ideal for anyone interested in aircraft and in flying.
Visitors
A different way of taking in a region from the air.
People who photograph
It gives you striking angles for photographs and video.
Couples and families
Good for special days and moments worth keeping.
Experience gifts
A popular choice for birthdays and other occasions.
Level of the experience
Leisure flight
The emphasis is on comfort and on the views.
Discovery flight
An introduction to leisure aviation and to how the aircraft works.
A first go at the controls
Some programmes let you get to know the controls, with the instructor watching over.
At a glance
Weather
Flights depend on the visibility and on the conditions in the air.
A qualified pilot
The experience is run by a licensed pilot.
Route
The route is set before take-off, or adjusted to the flying conditions.
Booking
Booking ahead is worth doing.
Weight limits
The operator may set limits, for safety and for the balance of the aircraft.
Photographs
You can take photographs if the operator allows devices to be used.
Gear
Seat belt
Required for the whole of the flight.
Headsets
They let you talk to the pilot and cut the noise in the cabin.
Comfortable clothing
Recommended whatever the season.
Phone or camera
It can be used as the pilot instructs.
Sunglasses
They can help when the light is strong.
Safety
Following the operator's rules and the pilot's instructions is what keeps the flight running smoothly.
Frequently asked questions about light aircraft flights
No. The experience is for passengers, and a qualified pilot runs it.
Depending on the package, roughly 20 to 120 minutes.
Some introductory programmes let you get to know the controls under the instructor's supervision, where that is part of the experience.
The flight is moved or cancelled for safety's sake.
Yes, if the operator allows devices to be used during the flight.
The flights are made in light aircraft used for general aviation and leisure flying.
Getting to know leisure aviation and seeing the landscape from the air.