There is something magical about putting on a pilot’s cap, taking of with roar, and exploring the world from above. It is called the “flying bug”, and it lingers in many of us, but for the true aircraft aficionado, like Cessna, Luscombe or Pitts-Special fans, worse so than others. These fanatics would give anything to roll and loop through the air and relive the 1930’s era in a vintage Waco or Stearman biplane, waving from the open cockpit, a silk scarf flapping in the prop wash.
Well, it’s time to finally cash in that a long awaited gift certificate. Camera in hand, you climb up onto the wing, clamber into the front seat and wait for the adventure to start. After getting takeoff clearance, the pilot advances the throttle and soon the rumble of the runway gives way to the smoothness of the air. The scenery below is captivating and you are ready for the thrill of a lifetime: aerobatics in a powerful, highly maneuverable airplane! First hand you are about to find out what it’s like to fly like a pro and execute complex aerobatic maneuvers such as loops, barrel rolls, tail slides, snap rolls, stalls and hammerheads. The adrenaline is seriously flowing and you hope your stomach can handle it as well as your mind.
A more faint-hearted pioneer can always skip the stunts and for an hour turn the clock back by strapping on goggles and taking in the wonderful sensation of an open-air vintage biplane. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a magical flight over the open desert, the scenic seacoast or a beautiful countryside.
To appreciate the freedom of the skies in a wonderful classic aircraft is on a lot of wish lists and a great gift idea. Flight duration and complimentary services like souvenirs, a videotape and photos vary depending on the company that is organizing these exciting flying experiences. Depending on your budget you may also consider helicopter flights, co-piloting a light attack fighter in air-to-air combat or take actual flying lessons. |
