Even with little or no flying experience, you can take to the skies and join in this ultimate air race. Kick off with a thorough briefing and a practise flight, where you learn to fly the cutting edge Extra 300 race plane (as used in the Red Bull Air Race event) including tight corners. Enjoy a snack lunch with your pilot and talk tactics as you prepare for the big race. Start by diving down to low levels at speeds in excess of 200mph, select 'smoke on' and storm across the start. Then pass through a series of simulated gates at high speed either with wings exactly level, or at 90 degrees - in 'knife-edge' flight! No matter what your previous experience, YOU will fly the aeroplane, with an experienced aerobatic and ex-military instructor with you to make sure that it is safe. Once all the competitors have taken their individual turns, it's fingernail biting time as you await the results. Have you been the fastest of the day? A results certificate signed by your pilot is yours to keep.
Availability:
Runs during March to October on the second Tuesday of each month (2009 dates are 10 March, 14 April, 12 May, 9 June, 14 July, 11 August, 8 September, 13 October).
Participant Guidelines:
Minimum age is 16, min height 5' and max 6'4''. Maximum weight is 15st 7lbs. Over 55s must supply a doctor's letter confirming suitability. Please complete and return the medical questionnaire to the venue direct.
Weather:
Flying is always dependent on the weather and it is crucial that you call the venue for a weather check before setting out.
Duration:
The whole experience lasts for approximately six hours, including approximately 40 minutes flying time. Actual flying time is at your instructor's discretion.
Numbers On Day:
You and your instructor share the aircraft. There will be between one and five other competitors on the day (each racing one at a time). Even with low numbers, the race will still go ahead and race time is logged on the 'Top Gear style' leader board.
Spectators:
You're welcome to bring up to two spectators, who can join you during the briefings. We strongly recommend that you get someone to drive you home; this is a high-adrenaline experience which is likely to substantially tire you.
Dress Code:
Wear comfortable clothes and flat shoes with good grip (trainers are ideal). Women - please wear trousers not a skirt. An active noise reduction (ANR) headset, flying suit and any other necessary equipment will be provided.
Other Info:
The race is flown 750ft over the airfield with experienced instructors calling out the turns based on physical features on the ground; gates or pylons are simulated to ensure safety. You may purchase a DVD of the flights at the end of day for £45.