About this tour
Take the controls of a helicopter at Redhill Aerodrome for a hands-on trial lesson lasting roughly 45 minutes. You'll receive one-to-one instruction from a qualified pilot who'll guide you through pre-flight checks and basic controls whilst flying over the local area. This is a genuine piloting experience, not a sightseeing tour—perfect as a gift or personal challenge. No flying experience needed.
Highlights
- Pilot a real helicopter with one-to-one tuition
- 45 minutes airtime plus ground briefing
- Suitable for all fitness levels and ages
- Fly with up to two friends free in R44 aircraft
- Redhill Aerodrome location in south-east England
- Weather guarantee: rescheduled if unfit conditions
What to expect
You'll arrive at Redhill Aerodrome for a pre-flight briefing covering safety and basic aircraft systems. Your instructor will then take you through the controls—collective, cyclic, and pedals—and guide you as you handle the helicopter yourself. The R22 seats you and the instructor; the R44 accommodates you, two friends, and the instructor. Expect a genuine learning experience rather than passive sightseeing. The flight covers the local Surrey and Sussex landscape at various altitudes. Throughout, your instructor provides real-time feedback and manages safety.
Good to know
Inform the operator of all passenger weights at booking—anyone over 15 stone (95 kg) must declare this beforehand. English fluency is required for effective instruction. Flights are weather-dependent; unsuitable conditions mean rebooking. No minimum age, but you must physically operate the controls safely.
Frequently asked
- How long does 40 minute Helicopter Explorer Trial Lesson take?
- 40 minute Helicopter Explorer Trial Lesson runs for approximately 45 min.
- How much does 40 minute Helicopter Explorer Trial Lesson cost?
- Prices start from GBP $770 per person. Final pricing varies by date, group size and any add-ons — confirmed at checkout via Viator.
- Where does 40 minute Helicopter Explorer Trial Lesson run?
- This tour operates around United Kingdom. Specific meeting points and pickup options are listed by the operator at checkout.
- Who runs 40 minute Helicopter Explorer Trial Lesson?
- The tour is sold and operated by its supplier through Viator. New Forest National Park earns a small commission on bookings made via the link, which keeps this site free for travellers.
- Is the tour confirmed at the listed price?
- The price shown is the operator's "from" price as of our last sync. Final price, currency conversion, group discounts and cancellation policy are confirmed at checkout — always review before paying.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original New Forest National Park summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.