Pilot our aerobatic stunt plane, Abel Tasman, New Zealand

Some frequently asked questions

If we haven't managed to answer your question below, just e-mail us...( the link is at the very bottom, right hand side of this page)

Will I really fly the plane?
You will have control of the plane, under supervision of the instructor, for most of your flight from 500 feet and above. The take off and landing are under full control of your instructor. Check out this guy

What about aerobatics?
Following a detailed briefing on the ground before start up, once airborne, the instructor will talk you through all your manouvers.
Rolls, hesitation rolls, loops, cuban eights and reverse cubans can all be acheived by most people within a 20 min flight.

Do I have to do aerobatics?
Every flight is completely individual. How much aerobatics you do is entirely up to you.
If the thrill of just flying an open cockpit biplane yourself around the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park is enough for you that's absolutely fine.

How long have you been operating for?
We are entering our 9th year of operation with this particular activity. We have been operating commercialy in air transport and flight instruction for 16 years now... and have spent over 30 years active in aviation in NZ including time spent in the RNZAF

What are your height and weight limits?
If you are over 6'5" tall .. sorry, but you will not fit. If you are between 6'2" and 6'5" you may not fit. ( it will depend on how long your legs are in relation to your total body height). If you are less than 6'2" you will fit so long as your body weight is in proportion to your size, or leaner. If you're not sure.. just drop us a line.

Do you have age limits?
Yes. As this is an instructional flight we have a minimum age requirement of 13 years.
Our upper age limit is only determined by your mobility and sense of adventure.

Will I be sick?
Very few people get sick in the Pitts, less than 3% in fact. this is your flight and you can call off the aerobatics at any stage.

Where are you, and what are your hours of operation
We are based at Motueka Aerodrome (see our directions page for details ) and we operate 10 1/2 months of the year. ( we close for 6 weeks during our winter in June / July ) We are generally open 6 days a week, Monday through Saturday, with Sundays available if booked in advance. All our flights are weather dependant - but we have the best weather in the country as well.

Do I need to book?
During our busy season ( Mid November through Mid April) we would definitely recommend booking to avoid dissapointment if you have a specific day or time in mind. Even during our quiet season, booking ahead will mean that we are all ready for you as you arrive with the aircraft all warmed up and preflighted ( and the kettle on). However.. if you just want to pop in and see what's happening on the day... or watch others flying.. then that's just fine too.

Now that I have tried, I like aerobatics, what can I do?
If you are already a pilot, you can train for an aerobatic type rating, a minimum of 5 hours wil be necessary.
If this is your first go at flying, talk to us about what it takes to work towards a private pilot's license.

I am staying in Motueka / Nelson region without transport, how do I get there?
We offer a courtesy coach within the Motueka area.
There is a regular bus network between Nelson and Motueka and with a bit of notice we can time your flight around bus arrivals and departures.
If in doubt, please ask.

Will I enjoy it?
take a look at the video.. do these guys look bored! Or check this out.

Can I bring my family and friends along to watch?
absolutely! The more the better. (And don't forget your cameras )