Warbird Rides - Joyflights!

[Bill G.]

Back in 2006, both my girl friend and I got to fly in a PT-17. Was that a blast! And the best part it was FREE rides for veterans!

It was about a twenty minute ride. And the pilot did some very basic maneuvers. All I had to do was make certain my knees stayed clear of the stick!

This was my first ride in an open cockpit biplane!

Bill G.

 

[Rocketeer]

very cool - do you have your PPL?

unfortunately no....have 1200+hours, just started to get some money together for a ppl when I had a divorce imposed on me!!! Anyhoo, at least I got to keep my aircraft stuff!!
cheers
Tony

 

[Gnomey]

Jealousy is raging in a torrent of flaming wasabi paste through my veins...

That makes at least two of us then...

Great stuff guys.

 

[Pong]

Wished there was stuff like that here, but no one has the money or will to get some ol' warbirds back in flying condition. Anyways, some great shots you guys posted.

 

[evangilder]

I forgot that I have also flown in an L-19 Bird Dog. It is a great photo ship for slower aircraft. I flew in it to photograph the wing walkers. Yes, we were that close. This shot was taken at 28mm!

 

[Pong]

Amazing photos on the site Evan, especially the Stearman!

 

[evangilder]

Thanks Pong.

 

[Pong]

How much do you guys pay just to get a ride in those planes?

(Still jealous)

-Pong

 

[evangilder]

Warbird ride programs have varying costs. For me, the cost is usually to the aircraft operators. Because I am the photographer, I usually get paid to do this. Not that it isn't fun, but it is work too. Now that I think about it, I have only had one warbird "ride" in the last 10 years without the camera.

Some organizations, like the CAF, will give rides to volunteers as a way of thanking someone for the hard work. But the people who give the most get priority, which makes sense.

 

[Lucky13]

Jealousy is raging in a torrent of flaming wasabi paste through my veins...

Multiply that by 10 and think of me in the same green shade as the Hulk and you're getting close....