Have you ever fancied piloting a plane? Hell yeah! Imagine how cool it would be to be at the controls, and you’re the one who calls the shots on whether you take a left or right as you navigate the skies. Pretty cool, eh?
Well that’s exactly what you can do with U-Fly, which is a real adrenalin-pumping experience where you can try the basics of flying as well as check out the awesome Lake Wanaka region.
So I limbered up to try the one hour experience, which includes a thirty minute flight. I was one-on-one under the guidance of Ruth Presland, a highly trained CAA certified instructor, who showed me the ropes. I really felt like a real-life pilot as I helped prepare the aircraft for flight, before experiencing the thrill of take-off.
The ground slowly got further and further away as we steadily got higher in the sky, and the amazing scenery unfolded below me. There were lakes, snow-capped mountains, rivers winding through green pastures, it was amazing!We checked out Wanaka township from above and then flew to amazing Glendhu Bay with views of the grand Southern Alps and Treble Cone ski field.
Then it was my turn to take the controls – wow, wow and triple wow!It was pretty amazing that just the slightest movement on the controls would change the entire direction of flight, so I soon realised it was wise not to be too heavy handed!My instructor Ruth was guiding me through it at all times, so I never really felt like I was on my own, as she could always put me right if I was straying off course! A bit like learning to drive a car – well, almost if you forget the fact that we’re looking down on the world from the clouds up above!
"feel the thrill of landing back at Wanaka Airport"
Next, we were flying over Lake Hawea, preparing to feel the thrill of landing back at Wanaka Airport. It was over way too quickly. I’ve definitely had my taste of life in the pilot’s seat and I can’t wait to be back!
Wanaka U-Fly is based at 6 Spitfire Lane, Wanaka Airport, and they do pick-ups from Wanaka if you don’t have transport.
Wanaka U-Fly has been operating for the past seven years training pilots and flying people from all over the world.
The instructors Ruth Presland and Wayne Allanson have a combined pilot experience of over 30 years.
The aircraft is a new two-seater, latest technology Light Sports Aircraft, with fantastic visibility and the highest safety record.
Prices start at $195. For more details call U-Fly on 03 443 4005 or 0800 021 262 or email zoom@u-flywanaka.co.nz or visit www.u-flywanaka.co.nz
Rachel stayed at the home-from-home Purple Cow Hostel, 94 Brownston Street, Wanaka, with great views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
For more information call Freephone 0800 772 277 or 03 443 1880 or email info@purplecow.co.nz or visit www.purplecow.co.nz
