Ever dream of soaring over the Southern California coastline behind the controls of an open-cockpit World War II biplane? You're in luck. Biplane Fun has a fleet of lovingly restored biplanes (circa 1943) that they'll show you how to fly. Instructors find out what kind of fun you're after---to knock out a few barrel rolls, or simply enjoy the view---and pass you the controls after going over the basics.
Sail through the skies above Palos Verdes and Redondo Beach from the outfit's headquarters in Westminster, California and---if asked---the pilot will even throw in a few stomach-dropping aerobatics.
Biplane Fun
5242 Princeton Ave.
Westminster, CA 92683
562-427-9433
biplanefun.com
If you're close to British Columbia and itching to jump into the pilot's seat of a biplane, hook up with the Vernon Flying Club (VFC) and SportAir. The VFC has been around since 1946, and the club has a long history of fostering new pilots (of biplanes and otherwise). (SportAir is the airport's training/sightseeing/rentals operation, facilitating new pilots' entry into the sport with a stable of highly qualified flight instructors.)
It isn't a quick afternoon lesson, but you won't be disappointed if you're looking for something more lasting. The VFC provides a starting point for many happy hours of aerial antics in a biplane (as well as scores of get-togethers, seminars and fly-ins for visiting friends of the VFC).
Vernon Flying Club/SportAir
6210 Tronson Road
Vernon, British Columbia, V1B 2Y1
250-503-0970
sportair.ca
Few places in the world offer the spirit of adventure as strong as it is in Australia. What better place to learn to fly a biplane?
Adelaide Biplanes Flying School is the brainchild of chief pilot Martyn Smith (a 15,000-hour, 25-year flying veteran), whose passion for the charming double-winged airships is surpassed only by his awesome facility. Lessons are relatable, unintimidating and branded with delightful, easygoing Australianness. Students learn their way around general aviation, as well as receive aerobatics instruction and multi-engine instrument training.
Adelaide Biplanes Flying School
Aldinga Airfield
Colville Road
Aldinga, South Australia 5173
+011-618-8556-5404
adelaidebiplanes.com.au
