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Compton Flight Training - Piper Warrior Light Aircraft 4 Seater Plane - Flight Experiences - Child in Cockpit - Family Flight Experiences

Trial Flying Lessons and Flight Experiences

Flight Experiences in Dorset

Take to the air with a flight experience over the Jurassic Coast.

Choose between an experience, where you get to sit in the cockpit alongside one of our pilots, and a trial flying lesson if you want to take control for your first time in a light aircraft, with an instructor by your side. Your flight time can count towards your PPL.

Buying for someone else? Our flying lesson gift vouchers are simple to buy and easy to redeem.

Buy a voucher

Choose your experience

Compton Flight Training - Student Pilot - Female Student Pilot - Cockpit - Learn to Fly 14-18

Trial Flying Lesson

Take control

Buy a Trial Lesson

A trial flying lesson is the first step towards learning to fly.

Meet your instructor at our beautiful Compton Abbas club base, then take to the skies. We will make sure you never forget the first time you flew over the beautiful Dorset countryside.

Your trial lesson plan:

  • Pre-flight briefing: meet your instructor, run through the controls, and plan the flight.
  • Take the controls: once airborne, you fly the aircraft while your instructor guides you through the basics.
  • Post-flight debrief: chat through what you have learned, and log your time towards your PPL.

This is a defined experience package.

Good for: first-time flyers, future student pilots, and anyone who wants a hands-on flying experience.
Compton Flight Training - Flight Experiences - Young Pilot Experiences - Children in the cockpit

Flight Experience

Sit back and enjoy the view as a passenger

Buy Flight Experience

A scenic passenger flight where you get to sit upfront in the cockpit, take in the beautiful views surrounding Compton Abbas Airfield and spot local landmarks.

Perfect for special occasions, or for anyone who wants to enjoy flying without taking control.

You will still have a full briefing and a clear plan before you fly.

Good for: celebrations, sightseeing, and milestone moments.
Compton Flight Training - Self Fly Club - Flights over Dorset - Old Harry Rocks

Jurassic Coast Flight Experience

Treat a loved one on their unforgettable journey

Buy Flight Experience

A Jurassic Coast flight experience lets you sit back and enjoy an aerial view of Dorset’s breathtaking Jurassic Coast and Thomas Hardy’s inspiring countryside.

It is ideal for special occasions, or for anyone who wants to enjoy flying without taking control.

You will still have a full briefing and a clear plan before you fly.

Good for: celebrations, sightseeing, and milestone moments.
Compton Flight Training - Sunset Flight - Light Aircraft - Learn To Fly in Dorset - Flying Lessons - Self Fly Club - Hour Building
Cotswold Flight Training and Compton Flight Training - Learn To Fly - Trial Lessons - Family and Instructor

Who flight experiences are perfect for

Flight experiences are a great fit for:

  • anyone curious about flying
  • people thinking about learning to fly
  • aviation enthusiasts
  • unique birthday or anniversary gifts
  • memorable days out in Dorset

No previous flying experience is required, you will be briefed properly and supported every step of the way.

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Your experience follows clear steps:

  1. Arrival and welcome
  2. Pre-flight briefing
  3. Aircraft walkaround
  4. The flight
  5. Debrief, photos, and next steps

If the weather is not suitable to fly, you will be offered clear options.

Prices vary depending on the length of lesson you choose. Prices start from £169.

Buy a voucher for your desired experience, then redeem when you (or the recipient) is ready to book.

Redeem your voucher

  • Qualified instructors
  • Safety briefing before every flight
  • Professional training environment
  • Well-maintained aircraft
  1. Purchase your desired flight experience from one of the links on this page.
  2. When you (or the recipient) is ready to book, contact us to redeem your voucher.
  3. One of our friendly team members will get in touch to find out more, in particular what you’d like to get out of your flight experience, and to book a date.

Redeem your voucher here

Yes. Photo opportunities are a part of your memorable flight experience.

You can take photos on the airfield and in-flight.

Dorset, Jurassic Coastline. Ariel View - Christopher Martyn Photography - Unsplash

Flying over Dorset

The Jurassic Coast looks different from the air. On a clear day you can expect breathtaking coastal views, a rolling countryside Thomas Hardy could only dream of, historic villages, and big skies.

Landmarks and sights to look out for:

  • Cerne Abbas Giant
  • Durdle Door
  • Corfe Castle
  • Old Harry Rocks
  • Lyme Regis Harbour and Beach
  • Portland Bill Lighthouse
  • Sudley Castle
  • Dover’s Hill
  • Poole Harbour and Brownsea Island
  • Christchurch Priory
  • Horton Tower
  • Hambledon Hill
  • Melbury Beacon

FAQs

How many people can fly?
As long as the aircraft weight & balance requirements are met, if you'd like to bring someone up with you a temporary membership for them can be purchased for £20 on the day. They can then ride in the back. Get in touch to check.
Do I get to fly the aircraft?
In a trial flying lesson experience, yes. Your instructor will brief you first, then you will have the opportunity to take the controls during the flight.
How long are CFT Experience vouchers valid for?
All Compton Flight Training Experience vouchers are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.
Do I need flying experience?
No. These flying experiences are designed for beginners. You will be briefed properly before you fly, and your instructor will guide you throughout.
How long is a flight experience?
Most packages offer 30, 45, or 60 minutes of flight time. Your total time on site will be longer, as you will also have a briefing and a debrief.
Can I bring someone with me?
Often, yes. It depends on the aircraft and the package you choose. If you are booking as a gift or bringing a guest, ask and we will confirm the best option.

At Compton Abbas Airfield there is a fantastic restaurant and plenty to see for guests waiting on the ground – or, you can purchase a temporary membership for an additional person to fly in the back.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes. Dress for the weather, as you may spend time outside during the walkaround.
Are there age restrictions?
There can be. Trial flying lessons are available from age 6 and over. If you want the flight to count towards your PPL logbook, you must be at least 14. Visit our Learn to Fly page to find out more.
Are there weight limits?
There can be, based on aircraft limits and balance calculations. Share the participant details when you book, and we will confirm the safest option.
What happens if the weather is poor?
If it is not safe to fly, we will not fly.
We will offer clear options to rearrange your booking or reschedule, depending on the package.
Is this suitable as a gift?
Yes. You can buy a voucher for a defined experience package, such as a scenic passenger flight or a trial flying lesson, in a set duration. It is a simple way to give someone their first flying memory.
How far in advance should I book?
If you have a specific date in mind, book early. If you are flexible, we can usually find a slot that works. Gift vouchers are a good option if you are buying ahead of time.
Compton Flight Training - Vintage Aircraft

Gifted a flight experience voucher?

Redeem it here