Frequently Asked Questions

How much flying experience is required?

For most excursions we recommend a minimum of 150 hours in your logbook. For those excursions requiring an instrument rating we recommend a minimum of 200 hours.

For Flightseeing trips, any level of experience is acceptable as there will be a CFI aboard. In fact, a pilot’s license is not required for Flightseeing.

Is an instrument rating required?

Aviation Vacations’ excursions are timed to catch the region’s best chances for clear skies, so nearly flights will take place under VFR. Due to the potential for low ceilings in New England, Northeastern Autumn requires an instrument rating... just in case.

What documents are required?

When you sign up for an excursion, you will be asked to provide a copy of your US pilot certificate*, medical, and last flight review endorsement. If your US pilot certificate is based on a foreign certificate, we will need a copy of that as well. You will also need photo identification when you fly, as required by the FAA.

Participation in Northeastern Autumn also requires a current passport for the pilot and passenger, as we will be flying internationally.

*Foreign based pilots flying their own foreign-registered aircraft need not possess a US certificate, but must meet requirements stated in FAA Part 61.3

What happens if we're delayed due to weather?

Aviation Vacations’ excursions are scheduled during periods least susceptible to menacing weather conditions. As with all flights, however, the risk of delay due to weather is present. We will either stay where we are until we are able to fly safely, or, if possible, divert to our alternate location.

Because lodgings and meals are pre-booked and pre-paid, there will be no refunds on trip segments that are missed due to weather. However, in the event of a change in plans due to weather, Aviation Vacations will cover 100% of additional accommodation costs for up to one night, and 50% of the cost for nights 2 and 3.

How big are the groups?

Aviation Vacations’ excursions are designed to accommodate 5 - 8 planes, including the guide aircraft; so there will be, at most, 16 people including pilot guide and tour coordinator.

What else do I need to bring?

Some of the smaller airports do not supply tie-down ropes, so please be sure to bring your own.

Can non-pilots participate in the tour?

Yes. Prices are based on double occupancy, typically a pilot and companion traveling together. If both you and your travel companion are non-pilots, we can arrange for one to accompany you and structure it as a flying lesson. Please inquire.

How much flying will there be?

Each trip is different (refer to the Excursion page for the details on the trip you are interested in), but generally we pace the trips to include a good mix of flying and non-flying days. The average flight distance is 250 nautical miles. 450 NM is about the most we will fly in one day.

Can I fly my own plane?

Absolutely. We will tell you where to go for our departure, and when to be there!

What types of aircraft can I rent?

If you need to rent a plane, Aviation Vacations can recommend a rental provider at our departure airport, or nearby. These companies offer the country’s most popular aircraft such as Cessna, Piper, Diamond, and/or Cirrus. Aircraft vary by location. You will need to do an aircraft checkout and abide by the terms and conditions of the aircraft owner.

Who is the lead pilot and what are his or her qualifications?

Aviation Vacations’ guide pilots are locals familiar with the region, with thousands of flight hours accrued and a thorough proficiency of the airports and routes on each excursion. And they are all friendly, nice, and helpful too!

What types of destinations will we be visiting?

Each Aviation Vacations’ destination is selected to showcase the region at its best, both from the air and on the ground. All corresponding flights, accommodations, restaurants and activities have been personally tested by Aviation Vacations‘ guide pilots and ground staff to ensure the finest of quality.

What types of places will we be staying in?

Forget faceless chain hotels. Accommodations will be in the region’s top boutique hotels, luxury inns/resorts and characteristic B&Bs.

What types of things will we be eating?

You’ll indulge in the choicest of regional specialties. In Maine, fresh lobster, the celebrated oyster on Prince Edward Island, locally grown produce in Vermont, Napa Valley’s premier Cabernets, and so on. In all cases there will be multiple options to suit every taste.

What types of activities will we be doing?

You’ll take in each region by way of activities that best establish its character. Seal watching on Prince Edward Island, sampling whiskey on Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, hiking America’s great national parks, and more.

Can I participate in the tour as a solo traveler?

Yes. Please inquire for single supplement.

What’s included? What extra costs will I be responsible for?

Included in each excursion are deluxe accommodations based on double occupancy, daily breakfast, most other meals, all activities as per itinerary, thorough pre-flight briefings, a navigation kit that includes airport diagrams and VFR sectional charts, ramp and tie-down fees, services of a pilot guide and tour coordinator, transfers, taxes and service fees.

Not included are transportation to or from the departure city, transportation to your aircraft check-out if renting (we can help with arrangements), materials for IFR flights (which may be required on the Northeastern Autumn tour but no others), aircraft or fuel, some meals, and alcoholic beverages.

Will I have any free time?

Yes. Our “no herding allowed” philosophy necessitates time for you to relax and explore the region on your own.

Will the trip be guided?

If you join a guided excursion, you’ll be provided the full service of an accomplished pilot guide and tour coordinator. You may also choose to fly our pre-arranged tour independently. In that case, we will make all the logistical arrangements for your trip, and you will fly it on your own.