Make their dream to fly with a Hurricane come true with this simply stunning aviation experience over Kent. For any flying fans this really is the ultimate, being treated to not only an up close and personal flying experience, but also a private air display from one of the world's most iconic aircraft.
The Hurricane was designed by Sydney Camm for Hawker Aircraft Ltd and over 14,500 were built in total. These single-seat fighters soon became a force to be reckoned with in all the theatres of the Second World War and the Hurricane served Air Forces proud. The Mk XIIa Hurricane you'll be flying with was built in Canada and went into service in 1943.
Today she is part of the Historic Aircraft Collection and when she's not flying resides at the Imperial War Museum at Duxford. Painted up in her traditional Battle of Britain colours and registered as Z5140 under the code HA-C, she is a true sight to behold and on this, our ultimate Hurricane experience, you'll have plenty of time to admire her.
Your day to fly with a World War Two Hurricane starts with boarding the executive helicopter at an East Kent location flying towards Canterbury. The unique sound of that Merlin engine will dominate the air as the Hurricane swoops in to follow you. She'll then race you down to the Kent coastline in aerial combat style, as you fly over the Battle of Britain Museum. As you land at the famous Memorial for a visit, the Hurricane will give you an aerial salute.
Back in the helicopter you'll regroup at South Foreland Lighthouse where the Hurricane, flown by Charlie Brown, will treat you to a personal display. This is a truly unforgettable moment and one of those 'once in a lifetime' events. After the display you'll hop back in the chopper and head back to your departure location.
Your fly with a Hurricane experience doesn't end there. Once the Hurricane has landed safely back, you'll be invited to meet the pilot and look around the aircraft - something very few of us have had the chance to do. Flight Lieutenant Charlie Brown will only be too pleased to answer your questions about this fantastic plane, as he's as very passionate about this beautiful Hurricane.
The experience will last approximately two and a quarter hours. You will enjoy a helicopter tour synchronised with in flight displays and aerobatics from an authentic z5140 Hurricane aircraft. Your pilot will provide a running commentary through headsets. Total airborne time will be approximately one and a quarter hours. All guests will receive a signed photograph from the Hurricane pilot.
- Board Luxury Helicopter at a site in East Kent
- Fly to Canterbury where you will be joined in the sky by the Spitfire
- Helicopter is 'chased' by the spitfire as it flies down to the coast
- Fly over Hell Fire Corner and Hawkinge - home of the Battle of Britain Museum,
- Hurricane aerobatic salute as you land at The Battle of Britain Memorial
- Fly along the White Cliffs of Dover as the Spitfire arcs around your helicopter
- Aircraft form at South Foreland Lighthouse for a Private Spitfire display
- Helicopter flight back to departure location
- Meet the Spitfire and Pilot for questions and photocall
- Presentation of signed mounted photographs to guests
- Visits to Spitfire and Hurricane memorial Museum and RAF Manston Museum
Selected dates are scheduled for June and September 2012. The experience is subject to weather conditions and serviceability of the aircraft. You may be able to reserve the front seat next to the helicopter pilot for an additional fee, payable on site.
Flights depart from helipads in East Kent. Sites such as Hythe, Lydd, Rochester and Manston are used subject to the current location of the aircraft. During the tour you will fly over Canterbury, Hell Fire Corner, Hawkinge, Capel le Ferne, Dover Harbour, Dover Castle, South Foreland Lighthouse and the White Cliffs of Dover.
There are no age restrictions to take part. The maximum passenger weight is 95kg (210lbs). Guests will fly in a six seater helicopter. At no point do guest fly in the Hurricane.
The Hurricane tour covers a large area therefore is not suitable for spectators. Friends and family are welcome however are welcome to watch the air displays from vantage points around the South coast - binoculars are recommended. The RAF and Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial museums are open and welcome any spectators.