Frequently Asked Questions

  • Gyrocopters (also known as gyroplanes or autogyros) are regulated aircraft that combine elements of both aeroplanes and helicopters.

    Unlike helicopters, the rotor is not powered by the engine. Instead, it turns naturally in the airflow (autorotation) while an engine-driven propeller provides forward thrust. This design provides excellent stability, outstanding visibility, and the ability to operate from relatively short runways.

    Modern gyroplanes are fully certified aircraft operating under UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) airworthiness standards.

  • Yes. Gyroplane flying in the UK operates within a defined regulatory framework overseen by the UK Civil Aviation Authority.

    Pilot training follows CAA CAP 44, which specifies instructor qualifications, training syllabi, supervised solo flying, and formal flight testing before a licence is issued.

    The aircraft themselves comply with BCAR Section T, the dedicated UK airworthiness code for gyroplanes. Factory-built aircraft must be maintained within approved continued-airworthiness programmes, and maintenance and certification work is carried out by appropriately authorised aviation engineers.

    In short, gyroplane flying is conducted under the same structured aviation safety principles that govern other forms of licensed flight training.

  • Flying in a gyrocopter is a highly immersive form of aviation. The aircraft offers panoramic visibility and a strong sense of connection to the landscape while remaining smooth and stable in flight.

    It combines the freedom people associate with helicopters with the simplicity and efficiency of light aircraft flying.

  • Yes. Experience flights are conducted as introductory flying lessons rather than passenger rides.

    Following a full briefing, your instructor may allow you to handle the controls under supervision, giving you a genuine understanding of how the aircraft flies.

    Many licensed pilots first discovered gyroplanes through an introductory flight.

  • Yes. We provide structured gyroplane flight training from first lesson through to licence issue.

    Training follows the CAA CAP 44 syllabus and includes ground instruction, dual flight training, supervised solo flying, navigation exercises, and a final skills test with an approved examiner.

    Students progress at their own pace while building safe decision-making and confident aircraft handling skills.

  • Training duration varies between individuals and is normally completed alongside work and personal commitments.

    Most students train progressively over several months, allowing skills and experience to develop naturally rather than being rushed. However, more intensive training programmes can be arranged by agreement between the student and instructor.

  • Many of our students are professionals, engineers, and business owners who want a practical and rewarding way to participate in aviation.

    Gyroplanes appeal to people looking for genuine flying involvement, flexibility, and the possibility of future aircraft ownership without the complexity associated with larger aircraft operations.

  • Yes — many do.

    Modern factory-built gyroplanes are efficient, capable touring aircraft and are increasingly chosen by private pilots who want accessible personal aviation. Ownership allows pilots to fly recreationally, travel locally, or simply enjoy aviation on their own terms.

  • Absolutely. Introductory flights are popular gifts for birthdays, retirements, and special occasions.

    They provide a genuine aviation experience rather than a passive ride, and for some people they become the first step into learning to fly.

  • Gyroplanes are mechanically simpler and more efficient to operate while still offering excellent visibility, slow-speed capability, and short take-off and landing performance.

    This makes them particularly well suited to recreational and personal flying.

  • You’ll begin with a safety and aircraft briefing before the flight. Your instructor will explain how the aircraft works, what to expect, and answer any questions.

    Flights are relaxed, unhurried, and conducted at a pace that allows you to enjoy the experience fully.

  • No experience is required.

    Most visitors have never flown in a light aircraft before. Instruction is introduced gradually so you feel comfortable and confident throughout the experience.

  • We combine professional aviation standards with a personal, instructor-led approach.

    Over more than a decade we have trained numerous pilots with strong safety records while operating one of the UK’s most active gyroplane training environments. Our focus is always on safe flying, proper understanding, and creating pilots — not passengers.

  • Costs vary depending on whether you are looking for a first flying experience or full pilot training.

    ✈️ Trial & Experience Flights

    The best way to start is with a trial flight, which allows you to experience flying a gyrocopter first-hand and, in most cases, take the controls under instructor supervision.

    We offer:

    • 10-minute Buzz Flights

    • 30, 60 or extended hands-on training flights

    • Flights in modern enclosed-cockpit gyroplanes

    Prices start from £69, with longer flights available depending on how much flying time you would like. All flights include a pre-flight briefing in addition to airborne time.

    Many people book these as gifts, while others use them as the first step toward learning to fly.

    🎓 Pilot Training (PPL(G))

    Training towards a UK Private Pilot Licence (Gyroplanes) — PPL(G) is charged per flying lesson rather than as a fixed package, allowing students to progress at their own pace.

    Under CAA CAP 44 requirements:

    • A minimum of 40 hours flight training is required

    • Training includes dual instruction, supervised solo flying, ground school, and a final skills test

    • Existing pilots converting from another licence may receive credit and typically require reduced minimum hours (subject to instructor assessment)

    Because every student progresses differently, total cost varies, but training is normally spread over time alongside work and personal commitments.

    Across the UK, gyroplane flight instruction typically ranges around £180–£200 per hour depending on aircraft type, with enclosed cockpit aircraft generally at the upper end of that range.

    We are always happy to discuss realistic training pathways and expected costs before you begin.