An Introductory Flight as a Gift: What to Expect

Some people get a watch for their birthday. Some get half an hour at the controls of an aeroplane. An introductory flight is one of the few gifts that can change what someone wants to do with their life, and it is worth knowing what it involves before you buy one.

What an introductory flight is

Sold as a trial lesson, it is a first flying lesson with an instructor from a training organisation, in a light aircraft with dual controls, and the person you give it to flies. Some providers sell a short introductory flight as a passenger instead, so check which one you are buying.

What usually happens on a trial lesson

1. A briefing on the ground: the aircraft, the controls, what the flight will cover.
2. The walk-round: watching, and helping with, the checks a pilot does before every flight.
3. The flight, commonly 30 to 60 minutes. The instructor normally handles take-off and landing; in between, the student usually flies turns, climbs and descents.
4. A debrief. Some providers give a certificate or a logbook entry; ask.

Things to check before you buy

• Who operates the flight. For a trial lesson it should be a declared or approved training organisation, with an instructor. Aeroclubs may also offer introductory flights under EU rules.
• What is included: whether the quoted time is time in the air or includes start-up and taxi; the briefing; any photographs or video.
• How long the voucher is valid and what happens if the weather forces a change of date. Light aircraft need reasonable weather, and rebooking is normal.
• Any limits on weight, height or age, which vary by aircraft.

Who it suits

Anyone curious. It makes a good gift for a milestone birthday, a graduation or a retirement. It is also an inexpensive, honest test for someone who says they have always wanted to be a pilot: time in the air tells them more than any brochure.

If they come back wanting more

That happens. The next step is not a deposit on a course. It is a Class 1 medical, if they are thinking of flying professionally, and a conversation about what the route involves. The PPL: what your first licence involves is a good place to start, and you are welcome to get in touch.

FlyInPoland.com plans and coaches training routes; it does not operate flights. Introductory flights are flown by flight training organisations or aeroclubs.