What Can I Expect

The Texan, the Pilot Maker, the Window Breaker - whatever you call the Harvard these lessons are going to be really rather special. After all, it's not every day you get to take a trial lesson in an historic Harvard warbird!

These flights operate out of Headcorn in Kent and North Weald in Essex. Both aerodromes are popular General Aviation airfields and favourites amongst pilots. The flight paths will be decided on the day, according to local conditions.

With its powerful radial engine and fully retractable undercarriage, the Harvard certainly looks and sounds the business. What we love most about these experiences is that they are not just pleasure flights where you sit back and enjoy the ride. If you're up for it, you'll be handling this American beast in the skies above Kent or Essex for a truly thrilling trial lesson.

In fact, the Harvard was used extensively around the world not only as a training aeroplane, but also as a fighter, despite it being seen as something of a 'hack'. That's because the Canadian Car and Foundry continuously worked on the design and the T6-G was much improved, making it a viable combat plane with greater fuel capacity, a steering tailwheel and a more ergonomic cockpit too.

The Harvard you'll be flying in was actually built as a standard T6 in 1943, but then went back to the factory to be upgraded to a T6-G in 1949. Working as a trainer for many years, followed by a stint with the Haitian Air Force, she finally came to the UK in 1989.

We are offering a variety of Harvard flight lessons. On all durations you'll have the chance to actually fly this impressive plane yourself. Whether you're soaring through the Essex skies or zooming in Kentish airspace over Headcorn you're in for a treat. Take in the views, take in that noise, take in that unforgettable smell of hot oil and love the day you met the wonderful Harvard!

When Is It Available

• Selected weekdays and weekends, subject to availability and weather conditions

Suitable For

• Minimum age 14
• All under 18's must be accompanied by an adult on the airfield
• Maximum weight 17 stone (108kg)
• Maximum height 6ft 6ins (1.98m)
• Participants must be able to walk 50 meters unaided and safely egress the aircraft themselves
• You must declare yourself medically fit to fly and complete a consent form

Spectators

• Spectators are welcome to come along and watch

Anything Else

• Car park, museum, café & bar available on site
• Optional extras including in-flight videos are available to purchase when booking your date