OPEN COCKPIT BIPLANE
& TEXAN RIDES
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Have a question about us? Check to see if we answered it here!

How many people can go up at a time?
In our 1942 open cockpit biplanes, the front passenger seat is a bench, and has a width restriction of 32"across, (side-by-side seating).  Very, very cozy! For two passengers to fit, please take this into account, and if you are considering adding in the aerobatic maneuvers, we must strap a parachute on you as well (FAA rules) which takes a bit more away from your allotted space. The Texan warbird is single passenger.
 

What is the minimum age?
It's more of a height requirement. A child of approx. 48 inches will fit safely in the seat belts and be tall enough to take in the view - with the help of our booster cushion. Children under the age of 10 should fly with an adult, exceptions made on a case-by-case basis.

Are there any weight limits for the flights?
Not really..... if you can fit in the front cockpit, you are good to go. BUT, climbing into the biplane takes a bit of dexterity. Let us know if you think your size may be an issue and we'll help figure it out.

Is aerobatic flight right for me?
If you like adventure and the thrill of a rollercoaster, you will love the aerobatics.

What should I wear on my flight?
Dress as if you were going for a ride in a convertible, layers recommended. Keep it c asual, bring sunglasses; we'll supply the cloth flying helmet and earplugs. White and fine clothing is not recommended as oil is present around airplanes. Windbreakers are discouraged as they tend to fill with air. Comfortable shoes recommended.

Can I take control of the airplane?
In the Biplanes, all passenger cockpit controls have been removed to safely accommodate two passengers; The Texan is a dual control airplane and you may "fly" the airplane at altitude, no take-offs or landings allowed.

Are the airplanes heated?
NOPE!  These are circa 1940's aircraft.....the real deal!!

Can it get too cold to fly in the open cockpit biplanes?
For your comfort, we do not fly the open cockpit biplanes if the temperature is below 60 degrees  F.

How can I purchase a gift certificate?
Call us at 707-938-2444. It will take just a couple minutes to process your order. If it's a surprise, we can mail it in a plain unmarked envelope or you can come by the airport and pick it up. If you need us to call you, we can be real stealthy if you need us to be, leave us the pertinent details of when and how to reach you.

Do the gift certificates/boarding pass expire? How long are they good for?
You never lose the value you paid for your Gift Certificate/Boarding Pass. We guarantee the price of the ride for six months, however after six months, if we experience an increase in rates, you will be responsible for the fare difference. Gift Certificates are non-refundable, but they are transferable. Please do not lose your gift certificate, they cannot be replaced. Gift Certificate must be presented for flight.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my flight?
Safety First. We never cut corners. If you are a scheduled flight, please call to confirm just before you need to leave the house or hotel. Even if it's nice where you are, we occasionally get some coastal fog, and vice versa - just because it's cloudy or rainy where you are doesn't mean it is where we are. We seldom have to make last minute changes, but your pilot has the authority to cancel a flight or change a route. In case of forecast inclement weather, we'll call you to see if you want to cancel or reschedule - either way, there's no charge.

Can I change my flight when I get to the airport for my ride?
Our goal is to be a accommodating as possible. As long as weather and time permits, you can upgrade your flight, add a second passenger, or change airplane types as late as standing on the flight-line.

What is your cancellation policy?
If you have a scheduled flight - we require 48 hours notice or you will be charged. If you have a guaranteed reservation and in the event of weather, we get to make the decision. 30 years of flying, we know what is fun and safe. If you decide not to come out and we're flying, your flight will be treated as flown. T hat's what a guaranteed reservation is all about; We promise you'll have a seat on the plane and you promise to pay us for making it available.

How safe is this?
Safety is priority, always. For 30 years we have maintained a perfect flying safety record and our aircraft are maintained to meet the highest FAA maintenance standards. We are insured.

What are your hours of operation at the airport?
We fly five days a week. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Our hours are from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, last flight out approx. 3:45 PM. Weekends just walk on in, no appointments needed or taken, we fly first come, first served. Weekdays we fly by appointment only.  If you call and get voicemail, please leave a message, we're probably up flyin'.  During the winter months December thru March we fly on Saturday & Sunday only. Also, we do not fly the open cockpit biplanes if the temperature is below 55 degrees F - for your comfort.

Can I bring a camera or camcorder?
Yes! But your camera MUST have a strap. A camera with a wide-angle or panoramic lens is best, but even a throw-away camera will capture this unforgettable experience.  A camcorder is OK as long as it is one of the smaller handheld types.

Should I tip the pilot?
Sure! And the pilots really appreciate it, but it is not required. Many of our passengers are so thrilled by their flight, they just can't refrain from showing their appreciation.

Do you give discounts?
The only discounts we extend are A).  Military - show us your Military ID and we shave 15% off the price.  Our way of showing  some appreciation  for the TON of gratitude we and our Country owe you fine folks;  and B) Pay cash and receive a discount of 10%.  As for "industry" discounts – there are so many great hotels and bed-and-breakfast  we have a policy of barter instead of discounts.  We will consider trade if you like. .

Do you offer group discounts?
In a word - no.  We do lots of events and we offer exceptional service, meticulously maintained aircraft and uber-talented, high-time pilots in type of aircraft. Guaranteed a great experience for any occasion!! Because we know you expect a high level of service from us, we do not offer discounts on rides.

Do you donate rides?
Please see our guidelines under the Tab marked Ride Donation Policy

Can people with physical challenges fly with you?
Generally, yes. We've had folks with all sorts of challenges fly with us. We would like to share the joy of flight with everyone, so please give us a heads-up and be willing to work with us, we'll do everything we can. Give us a call at 707-938-2444 to discuss your needs. If we can figure out a way, we sure will.

Are you insured?
ABSOLUTELY YES!

Can I rent your hangar for a party?
Add flying to your party and create an experience your guests will be talking about for a lifetime!  Please click tab above marked Plan A Party for information.  We do not rent hangar space for non-flying events - so add open-cockpit biplane flying to your event and find out what "the sky's the limit" really is!!  The best non-alcoholic buzz you'll ever get!

Do you accept certificates from 1800SKYRIDE? - No! We do not!

 

PROVIDING SAFE, EXCITING FLYING EXPERIENCES SINCE 1975


23982 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA 95476
707-938-2444

Winter Hours of Operation
(November 1 thru March 31)
Saturday and Sunday
11:00am to 4pm - walk-in
Limited weekday appointment. 
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
 

We fly weather permitting - For passenger comfort,
60 degrees or better for open cockpit flights.


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Home Biplane
Flights
& Rates
TEXAN
Flights
& Rates
Our Fleet Our Pilots Photo Gallery Gift
Certificates
Plan A
Party
Pilot's
Favorites
What Our
Customers Say
FAQ Ride Donation
Policy
Directions Contact Us