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Helicopter Flight (Hertfordshire)
In
Brief "Simply
excellent. A top-class experience with top-class instruction."
Review
The
experience began at Elstree - a small aerodrome, just a short drive
from the M1. The venue comprises a single airstrip, series of
hangers and a reception building.
Upon arrival we signed in at reception and awaited our instructor
for the day. After a short wait our instructor arrived and led us
into a small pre-flight training room. Once inside, we were
introduced to the various techniques and rules for flying the
helicopter. A small model was used to illustrate how to
perform the basic maneuvers.
We were also guided through the various instruments and cockpit
components. The pre-flight session lasted about 15 minutes and
was conducted extremely well. The
instructions were clear and easy to understand. We were also
impressed by the friendliness of our instructor.
We then made our way to the helicopter, which in this instance was a
four-seater R44. Our instructor began by walking us around the
helicopter and pointing out the essential components. We then
climbed in and performed a cockpit drill, which included checking
the electronic and mechanical components were operating
correctly. The front seats are arranged so that the instructor
and trainee sit side-by-side and can share the control-stick and
other controls. It was then time to put on our head-sets, start the
engine and begin the flight element of the experience...
As the rotor-blades gathered pace, the noise grew and we could feel
the helicopter edging closer to take-off. A couple of seconds
later and we were hovering 6 feet off the ground. At this
stage our instructor was in full control of the helicopter.
We could communicate via our headsets. Our instructor
explained he would fly us several miles from the aerodrome and
ascend to a few thousand feet. The view from the cockpit was
amazing and quite unlike a plane. We could see all around, as
if being in a glass bubble.
Once we had ascended to a sufficiently safe altitude the instructor
handed over the controls. The initial sensation (other than
the rush of adrenaline) is the sensitivity of the controls.
Even the slightest pressure on the control-stick had a huge effect
on the helicopter's flight. Flying the helicopter required
coordinating three separate controls - pedals to alter the heading,
a throttle/altitude lever and the control-stick.
We performed a number of maneuvers to experience the role of each
control device. In each instance our instructor kept control of the
other elements. Gradually, each element was combined until our
instructor handed over full control . This part of the
experience was fantastic and we were free to fly where we
liked.
The experience of flying the helicopter combined challenge,
excitement, adventure and freedom. There are few experiences that
offer such a full range of features. Our instructor was
excellent and allowed us enough flexibility to really explore the
capability of the aircraft.
Booking
information
Please visit
www.adventure001.com
or call 08000350036 for more information, including costs and booking information. |
