Flying yourself

Self-flying is a helicopter flying lesson in which you take control of the controls yourself under supervision. You start with a theory lesson of about 30 minutes. In it, the instructor explains how the helicopter works, how to steer, safety procedures and what you will do during the flight.

This is followed by a 30- to 60-minute flying lesson with an experienced instructor beside you and dual controls. During this lesson, you take over the controls step by step and learn the basics of helicopter flying in practice. The instructor continuously guides you and can intervene directly when needed.

In short, it is not a sightseeing flight as a passenger, but a real helicopter flying lesson where you fly yourself under professional guidance.

No, you do not need any experience or prior training to fly a helicopter yourself. Flying yourself is a helicopter flying lesson designed precisely for beginners and anyone who wants to be introduced to helicopter flying in a safe, accessible way.

You get clear instructions beforehand and during the flying lesson, a certified instructor guides you step by step. You fly with dual controls and the instructor sits next to you, so you always learn to fly safely and get immediate help when needed.

Hilversum - Flying yourself with the popular S300 (for 1 student). This location is the most central, has the most lesson dates available and is open 7 days a week. By far the most chosen option.

Harskamp - Flying yourself in the Robinson R44 (for 1 student + up to 2 passengers in the back). Available 6 days a week, closed Sunday.

Lelystad - Two options to fly yourself:

S300 (for 1 student): limited availability, maximum 2 days per month.

Cabri G2 (for 1 student) or R44 (for 1 student + max 2 passengers): both helicopters available 7 days a week.

Emmen - Flying the S300 yourself (for 1 student): limited availability, maximum 1 day per month.

Yes, if you are going to fly yourself in a helicopter flying lesson with the R44, you can usually take two passengers in the back. This is possible at locations such as Harskamp and Lelystad (R44). Your friends or family will then fly along as passengers while you fly the helicopter yourself under supervision - making the experience extra special.

On other helicopters you fly yourself, such as the S300 or Cabri G2, it is not possible to take passengers. Therefore, when booking, always check per location and helicopter what the options are.

The cost of flying yourself depends on the type of helicopter, the location and the duration of the helicopter flying lesson. Some examples:

Hilversum (S300): from €330

Harskamp (R44 + passengers possible): from €810

The S300 is the cheapest choice and ideal if you want to experience helicopter flying yourself just once. The Cabri G2 is a bit more expensive, has a modern glass cockpit and is especially interesting if you might want to get your licence later.

All options include the theory part and the flying lesson itself. Upgrades for longer flight time or additional options are usually possible.

Yes, at each location there is room for friends or family to come along. They can watch on site while you fly the helicopter yourself under supervision. This makes it a fun and special experience not only for you, but also for your company.