Who can fly?
Just about anyone can fly one of our aircraft. For our Introductory Flight Experiences, there are no age limits and you don't need to pass any sort of medical exam.
Is it safe?
Overall, flying is very safe. Pilots have far fewer accidents (big and small) than your average car driver. All of our aircraft are equipped with full dual controls and beginner pilots always have an experienced instructor on board to ensure safety procedures are taught and followed. In addition, Parakai Flying School is undergoing the proceess of fitting Collision Avoidance Systems in our entire aircraft fleet because safety is our number one priority.
Do you do scenic flights?
Every flight from Parakai is a scenic flight due to our stunning location. However, we go one better by letting you fly the plane too. But, if you just want a regular scenic flight we will put you in touch with an operator at Parakai offering this.
Do I get to fly the aircraft alone?
Once you have gone solo you will be able to fly the aircraft alone. At first, you are always accompanied by an instructor in our aircraft which are all equipped with dual controls.
How long does it take to Go Solo?
After as few as 10 lessons, if the instructor thinks youre ready, you will be sent up for the never forgotten thrill of your first solo circuit.
How long will it take me to get my license?
For many students achieving their PPL or Microlight License will take about 1 to 2 years if they do weekly or fortnightly lessons. Because we train each student as an individual, there is considerable variation in the time it takes.
How soon can I start?
If the weather is good and there is a plane available you can start today! Call us on 0800 FLY WEST to discuss the introductory lessons today or your special needs. Your introductory flight will count as hours toward your license whether you wish to continue with us or another organization.
Parakai Airfield is equipped with it's own Weather Station. This allows you to see the ground conditions that we are experiencing. Often, the weather systems in the city are quite different to what we're experiencing. If you ever have any doubt about the weather based on what you're seeing outside or online, feel free to call us on 0800 FLY WEST.
Launch Weather Station
What is flying from Parakai Airfield like? Share what others have seen by watching these airfield user videos.
Each video shows something different. A variety of aircraft are featured, not all of them are flying school operated.
Many thanks to the creators of these videos who are willing to share their flying experiences.
If you have video footage of any flying at Parakai, please feel free to upload it to YouTube and email us the link to your video so we can add it here.
