frequently asked questions specific to introductory flights.

How long is the voucher valid for?

All Introductory Flying Lesson Vouchers are valid for six months from the date of order. This date is annotated on the Trial Lesson Certificate.

Is there an minimum age limit?

Generally, we would say the youngest age practically is around twelve years old but it depends on how tall the individual is. We normally ask customers if the recipient of the voucher can reach the pedals in a motor car. This will give a good indication as to whether they will be able to reach the rudder pedals in the aeroplane.

Is there a maximum age limit?

No. If there are any health concerns though we do strongly advise you to seek advice from the recipients General Practitioner.

Is there a maximum weight limit?

Yes.  For the aeroplane lessons the weight limit is 15 or 16 stone (depending on which instructor you fly with).  For the helicopter lessons there is a maximum weight of 16 stone for lessons in the R22 and 20 stone in the R44.

Can the hours flown on the Trial Lesson be counted towards a Private Pilot's Licence (PPL) should I wish to continue?

Yes. After your lesson, your instructor will give you a Mini Log Book which gives details of the flight. Included in these details are the 'chock to chock' times. This time can be counted towards the minimum 45 hours requirements for the grant of a PPL.

How long does it take to receive the voucher?

Generally vouchers are sent out next day. During busy periods, i.e. Christmas Time when we have large numbers of trial lesson vouchers being processed it may take longer although we take every step to ensure that they are dispatched promptly.

How do I find Bonus Aviation?

Take a look at the 'directions' link on the Trial Lessons Page. This will give you a link to the surrounding area and will also give you step by step instructions on how to reach us after you have got to the Cranfield Campus entrance. We would suggest that you print these off and bring them with you.

Does the voucher come in a Presentation Wallet?

Each voucher comes with three little booklets.  One with directions to the airfield, the other with frequently asked questions and the third telling the recipient about the flight itself and what they will be doing.

Do I get a Certificate after the lesson?

After your flight, your instructor will present you with a First Flight Certificate and a Mini Log Book.

What sights does Cranfield have that I may see from the air?

For all you Grand Prix fans you will be happy to know that Silverstone race track is 15 minutes away by air. You will also see Woburn Abbey as well as Woburn Zoo, Milton Keynes Snow Dome (Snowdonia), Althorpe. Going in a Easterly direction you will be able to see Cambridge University, the Cardington hangers (home of the airships) and Castle Ashby.

What weather can I fly in?

To gain the maximum benefit out of your trial lesson, we always ask that you telephone us on the morning of your lesson (operations staff are here from 0800 on a daily basis). Your lesson will be postponed in the event that we are experiencing low cloud, thunderstorms, strong winds across the runway, fog/mist or snow.

Can I bring my friends and / or family to watch?

Your friends and family are more than welcome. There is a Cafe next door to Bonus that sells drinks and hot snacks. There is a viewing gallery in the control tower where you can watch the recipient of the voucher undertake their flying experience whilst listening to them on the radio.

Do I need to bring a form of identification?

Yes. Please bring with you either a passport or a photo driving licence as proof of identification.

Can I take photographs?

Yes. You are more than welcome to bring with you either a camera or a video recorder, however, we would ask that you leave your mobile phone with a member of your party on the ground or a member of staff for safe keeping.

How safe is flying?

You should be safe in the knowledge that we are always under the guidance of air traffic control. Both the aircraft and the instructors are inspected regularly in accordance with strict guidelines laid down by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Can I take a passenger with me?

With the trial lessons in the Piper PA38 Tomahawk there is only enough seating for the recipient of the voucher and the instructor. Should you wish to join in the experience as a passenger you can purchase a 'Special Thirty' or a 'Special Sixty' lesson which will be conducted in one of our four seater PA28 Archer aircraft.

How much notice should I allow to book a lesson?

We normally ask that you book your lesson two weeks in advance. Weekends are especially busy with trial lessons so keep this in mind when planning ahead.

Should I want to upgrade my lesson on the day what do I need to do?

You must inform the operations staff if you would like to upgrade your lesson at your earliest convenience and they will be happy to inform you of any additional fee's that may be incurred. These fees can either be paid via telephone, fax, email or can be settled on the day of the flight experience (As an example: The Local upgrade to standard 30 incurres a £21.00 upgrade fee)

I have just noticed that my voucher has expired. What can I do?

Please telephone us. In the majority of cases, we will extend the voucher but there will be a revalidation fee to pay. If you call Jo or Simon they will be happy to inform you of the additional costs.

The person that I gave the voucher to has decided that they do not want to benefit from it. Can I get my money back?

All vouchers are non refundable. However, if you find yourself in this situation, you can pass the voucher on to another person providing you telephone us to inform us of the change of name.

I've booked a day to have my lesson but need to change it.  What do I do ?

We ask that you provide 7 clear days notice if you wish to change you time.  Should 7 clear days notice not be given we reserve the right to charge you an additional £10.00 when you re-book.