The ever humorous Douglas Adams always knew how to turn a phrase. He wrote The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy that sold more than 15 million copies in his lifetime. Given the nature of that book, we’re sure he would laugh with us at the irony of it all. As he quoted, “I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I needed to be.” Which leads us neatly to our post. We’re sure that everyone here has had a pivotal moment, where change was imminent: you decided to do something so out-of-character, no-one knew what to do with you next. Maybe your idea was crazy, or haphazard or – to many – unfathomable. We’ve all been “there.”
And, in order to get “there,” we’ve likely taken a plane. But how many of you have actually thought to go one step further . . . out of the blue and into the clear blue skies? Your editor did, years ago and it was exhilarating. We’re talking about flying a light plane for enjoyment. Cessna, Piper, Beechcraft or even an Ultralight. If this looks like fun, look below: we have some ways to make it happen!
We’ve recently discovered that there are loads of places where you can learn to fly, or at least take a lesson or two to see if it’s for you. Have a look at some of the companies who are offering this enjoyable pastime.
First in line is the rather exciting U-Fly Wanaka, based in New Zealand‘s South Island. They state “2 in 1 incredible scenic flight plus your chance to fly a plane. Sit back and enjoy a truly superb instructional scenic flight over the lakes, mountains and glaciers. We use highly reliable training aircraft that have dual controls for the person flying and experienced instructor. Click here to learn more and book.
If you find yourself in North America, fly a Plane in New Orleans. Some holiday! Click here to look and book.
In the UK? Try Gamston Flying School. The UK has a long history with flight. We’re a friendly and professional flying school based just off the A1 near Retford, Nottinghamshire. We’re less than an hour from Doncaster, Sheffield, Newark, Gainsborough, Mansfield, Nottingham and Lincoln. We offer trial flying lessons, alongside training towards licences. Click here to look and book.
How about Maui? Wowwee! Get a bird’s eye view of Hawaii as you soar above the island of Molokai on a 60-minute flight lesson from Maui. Join your instructor, a FAA-licensed commercial pilot with more than 10,000 hours of experience, as you take command of a Cirrus SR22 plane, learning how to take off, cruise at altitude, descend and advance to the runway for landing. You’ll also enjoy a quick break at Kalaupapa on Molokai. Your flight lesson also includes narration from your pilot and a commemorative video of your experience. No experience required. Read more about Maui’s Best Private Flying Lesson to Molokai (2-3 per group.) Click here to look and book.
Visiting Canada? Take a flight with the Victoria Flying Club! Click here to book.