Trial Flights

What is a Trial Flight?

It is the first introduction to flying where you, the student, has the opportunity to take the controls of a light aircraft under the instruction of an experienced flying instructor. All the aircraft have dual control meaning that the instructor can take back control at anytime. On arrival you will be asked for your voucher, if you have one, and complete a Day Membership form. You will then be introduced to your instructor who will give you a short briefing, including safety, and discuss your route before taking you out to the aircraft and showing you around it. Once the engine is started and propeller turning you will leave the apron (parking area) and taxi to the runway ready for take off. Once in flight you will be given instruction and then told “You have control” this means that you will be given complete control of the aircraft until you wish to hand it back or the instructor says “I have control” at this point you will hand back the control of the aircraft. On landing you will be given a short de briefing and revel in the experience you have just had. At this stage you may decide you’re hooked. You are welcome to book more lessons or even sign up for a PPL course(Private Pilot Licence)!

Who can have a Trial Flight?

At Bournemouth Flying Club we are happy to take anyone over the age of 6 years, in reasonable health and can fit into a regular seat harness. It is important that the ‘student’ is able to see out, we do have booster cushions.

When can the Flights be taken?

We are open seven days a week and only close for a few days over Christmas. The first flying slots are at 08.30 and the last ones at 18.30 in the summer, this gets earlier as the evenings draw in. Dusk is also a fabulous time to fly and we can arrange this for you.

What happens if the weather’s poor on the day of my flight?

On the morning of your Trial Flight we ask you to call us to confirm that the weather is likely to be favourable for your flight. If not, we simply re-book for another day. 

Can I bring someone with me?

You are welcome to take someone to observe from the back seat. Although most of our aircraft have 4 seats they realistically only take 3 adults, this is due to ‘weight and balance’, yep, the techy stuff ie : the total weight of the aircraft in Take Off with fittings, crew, passengers, baggage and fuel. Your guest will also be asked to complete a Day Membership form and a £20 Day Membership will be charged. You can bring lots of other friends and family with you as we have a superb Café with a terrace overlooking the main runway.

Is it possible to choose where I go?

The instructor will discuss and plan the route with you. We try to accommodate special requests but it is not always possible. There are some sensitive areas such as Southampton Airspace and Lulworth Ranges, where they practice live firing, Bovington and Blandford Camp and Boscombe Down.

Can I take a camera? 

You are very welcome to bring camera and video equipment as long as it’s not bulky. Telephones with cameras are fine as long as you are able to put them in flight mode.

Will I feel ill?

On rare occasions some people may feel a little queasy but it’s extremely unlikely for someone to actually be sick (the instructor carries sick bags, just in case!)

Is it possible to buy a Gift Voucher? 

If you would like to buy a voucher as a gift you can do this online or over the telephone. The voucher will be posted in an unmarked envelope just in case it’s a surprise. You can also call in and buy one at our Reception. You may even like to stay for a drink or something to eat in our Café. The vouchers are valid for 6 months and are not refundable.  They are transferable if the recipient is unable to take the flight.

We have a wide selection of special flight offers available