Lets Fly Away: Flying Lesson 101

Do you like flying? How many times have you flown, meant in a plane, when we travel abroad most of the times we fly, frequent fliers, countless flights either long hauls or short, the buzz of flying is incredible. The feeling that we will be exploring new places when we get to our destinations. 

Have you ever thought of flying a small plane? co-piloting a plane?  or just sit beside the pilot and watch the world underneath you, the beautiful landscapes, mountains, hills and houses dotted along the farms in a miniture like perspective. I had this experience when I went to Canada 6 years ago and took the helicopter ride in Niagara Falls and what an experienced, I was sat next to the pilot. The magnificent view infront of me, I never forgotten up to this moment or maybe in this lifetime.

Me capturing the view in Niagara Falls

Since then I was dreaming to fly a small plane. I planed to do this activity last year and the timing was not good. But this time a chance to do this landed on my lap, its a dream come true. I booked myself a flying lesson, yes you heard it right, madness strikes again but for sure an amazing experience awaits. This is how I treat myself, if not travelling to different countries, booked myself a spa treatments, lunching out with friends trying new cuisines or new restaurants, or different outdoor activities zipline, trekking, local roadtrips, canoeing, camping and this time flying a small plane. Life is just so amazing and its a shame if you just sit in the corner and wait for something to happen, let those amazing adventures happen by doing it.

I booked my flying lesson with iflyUK  they are based in Membury Airfield Berkshire. I set off about 2:45pm for my 4pm lesson and It's only an hour drive from Cheltenham. As soon as I arrived I went straight to the reception and sign a waiver and membership.  I waited for 30 minutes before my flying lesson starts, I got plenty of time to take photos around.

My buddy bear 

Aircraft use in wingwalking

I was so excited when pilot Charles came to introduce himself and he assured me I will enjoy the experience.  I told him I had helicopter experience in Canada but only a passenger. A quick introduction to the C42 microlight aircraft which is a two seater with fixed tricycle gear normally used for flight training, touring and personal flying. The C42's light wing loading gives efficient cruise performance and high lift flaps that makes it safe to increase the speed and remarkably smooth and easy landing.

Im ready to fly

He also demonstrated how light is by moving it with just one hand. Then  we went in the cockpit/cabin its ergonomically designed for ease of pilot and co-pilot access through the dual clamshell doors,  it looks small outside but its spacious inside.  A quick safety briefing, belt fastened, headset in place and he showed me the control stick,  the dual throttles, electric trim control and the flap control, we are safe to take off. We taxied along the runway then just in a couple of seconds we were ascending to the air. The view was magnificent, but the experience of taking full control to the throttle, maneuvering the aircraft and managed to land it safely was an exhilarating experience. 

The Pilot

Airbase camp

Donington Castle

This activity is highly recommended,  not cheap but the experience is incredibly wonderful. Another experience tick off from my bucketlist. 

Disclaimer: All my review/ recommendations is my personal opinion, not  influenced by others.