North American Harvard

In association with Warbird Experiences, Blue Skies Aviation offers flight experiences in the classic Harvard.

Enjoy a rare opportunity to relish first hand the thrill and excitement of flying in a T-6 'Texan', the famous World War II vintage fighter-trainer aircraft. Known widely in the UK as the 'Harvard', this two-place, dual controlled, single engine ex-military trainer is steeped in history, the charismatic growl of her 600 horsepower radial engine evocative of a bygone era.

Now you too can discover how so many pilots were taught their flying 'abc's by indulging in a 'flying lesson' in this marvelous historic aeroplane!

No previous experience or qualifications are required to savour a nostalgic 30 or 50-minute flight with our fully qualified instructor in this pristine example of a classic warbird.

The Warbird Air Experience....

This unique experience lasts for a total of approximately two to three hours depending on the flight duration selected. This includes a full briefing to encompass the all important safety drills, familiarization with the aircraft and her systems and the effects of the aircraft controls. During the course of the flight, the instructor will offer the chance to take control of this wonderful aeroplane and you can experience for yourself the challenges faced by so many young cadets.

This is a remarkable chance to enjoy a truly memorable experience at the controls of an aircraft type that helped train over 10,000 British pilots, many going on to fly Spitfires, Hurricanes and Mustangs. Little wonder it was affectionately nicknamed by many as 'the Pilot Maker'.

Our 'Pilot Maker'

We think that our 'Pilot Maker' was originally constructed in 1943 but, unhappily, her wartime records have long since disappeared. She was 're-manufactured' as a T-6 'G' variant in 1949 and served with various USAF training wings from 1951 until she was 'struck off charge' and sold to the Haitian Air Force in 1954.

We are lead to believe that she saw action and was used in anger in an abortive coup in Haiti in the late fifties, probably fitted with wing mounted external machine guns and bomb ordnance in a ground attack role.

With her military days over, she was back in the U.S.A. by 1960 where she was owned by a number of civilian enthusiasts before being sold to Paul Morgan and imported into the U.K. in 1990. Paul had her decked out in a classic California Air National Guard colour and markings scheme in the 1990's and she continues resplendent in this genuine insignia to this day.

Ready for take off? Select your flight now.

If you haven't flown previously, then Warbird Experiences can offer you a memorable 'flying lesson'. You can be just like the cadets of World War II.

If you are a pilot or student, then Warbird Experiences offers a unique chance to enjoy ' Differences Training' and add a warbird type to your logbook.

If you are really keen, then this rare opportunity for a full 'Type Conversion' course is available, all you need to fly the Harvard to solo standard!

What's included in each flight experience?

The Welcome and Briefing - 30 minutes

• Introductions - to your instructors and your fellow 'Cadets'
• Safety at the airfield - how to enjoy your experience safely
• Aircraft familiarization - systems and cockpit safety drills
• Preparation for a flight - aircraft & flight documentation
• Effects of the aircraft controls - the theory of flight
• Actions at the end of a flight

The Sortie - 30 or 50 minutes in the aircraft

You will 'walk round' the aircraft along with your instructor before climbing on board and strapping in. Sitting behind your instructor, you can assist in cockpit checks, taxiing and the pre-flight checks. Then comes take off..........................

During the air experience flight you may find out how the controls affect the aircraft in flight by taking control. If you like, we'll loop and roll. You'll taste the sense of freedom, see the local landmarks and before you know it, you'll be joining the circuit back at the airfield for landing. You may fly up to 75% of the time if you wish, or you may just want to sit back and enjoy the ride...the choice is yours, you can participate as much or as little as you like!

The debrief - 20 minutes

Back at the Warbird Experiences briefing room, we'll complete the paperwork and then 'debrief' the flight and get answers to any questions you may have about your air experience flight. Finally, your certificate and logbook entry will be presented to you.

Now all you have to do is decide the duration of your flight!

Where do you go to enjoy the thrill?

Warbird Experiences normally operate at historic Rochester Airport , just two minutes off the M2 in North Kent and just half an hour from the Dartford River Crossing and the M25. Rochester railway station is ten minutes away in a taxi with frequent connections to London and the Kent Coast . And of course, you could always fly in! There are reputable hotel facilities adjacent to the airfield and Warbird Experiences can arrange for a special rate. Exceptionally, the aircraft may be positioned at other airfields.

When can you fly?

Flights are conducted all year round but are naturally subject to the vagaries of the British climate and aircraft serviceability. Warbird Experiences vouchers are supplied open dated valid for six months from the date of issue. You should book eight weeks in advance to avoid disappointment but Warbird Experiences occasionally has last minute places available for you.

How long does it take?

You should allow at least two to three hours at the airfield depending upon your choice of flight duration, although there is no need for you to rush off. The City of Rochester is just a short distance away with its many historic attractions. Also close by is the historic former Royal Naval Dockyard. Stay for dinner and maybe stay overnight!

Can anybody enjoy it?

Yes, but there are some limitations

Height Minimum 5 foot Maximum 6 foot 4 inches

Weight Maximum 22 stone

Medical fitness Generally good health is advised before undertaking any Warbird Experiences flight. If you are pregnant or suffer from epilepsy you should not participate. Medical fitness is the responsibility of the 'cadet'. A reasonable level of agility is required in order to 'scale' the aircraft when getting in and out although steps can be provided for your safety and comfort.

What do you need to bring?

Participants should wear casual seasonal clothing and light footwear. Flying coverall suits will be provided for the Warbird Experiences flight itself. Loose articles must be left on the ground.

Who will be looking after you?

Warbird Experiences only engage suitably experienced personnel and qualified pilots licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority.

What about the weather?

You will be advised of a telephone number to call before setting out on your journey to check whether the weather forecast is suitable for your Warbird Experiences flight. If the forecast is unfavourable, the Warbird Experiences flight can be re-booked at no extra charge.

Can you bring family and friends with you?

Of course! There is an airfield viewing area and café or why not bring a picnic? There is a reputable hotel adjacent to the airfield that offers dining and leisure facilities for all to enjoy.

Are there facilities for the disabled?

Yes.

What insurance and safety arrangements are there?

Warbird Experiences carries appropriate third party liability insurance up to £5,000,000 for any one incident. All our aircraft are maintained to stringent standards in accordance with Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) requirements and are operated in accordance with UK National and European aviation law (CAA/JAA rules and regulations)