Why flying lessons? I think the better question is: Why not? For some, the opportunity to fly has been a lifelong dream. For others, it represents a newfound passion, or even the chance for a once-in-a-lifetime, completely unique experience. As Leonardo da Vinci so aptly put it, “For once you have tasted flight you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there you have been and there you will long to return”. So what are you waiting for? A flying lesson is the ultimate gift experience for any of your loved ones!

Not Just Any Experience

Gift the extraordinary. While a fancy watch or cozy sweater may seem appealing now, over time they’ll be integrated into our daily routine and that special sentiment will slowly fade. Experiences, on the other hand, lead to long-lasting memories. And a gift like a flight lesson is incomparable, an unforgettable experience which is guaranteed to outlast a physical object. As the gift giver of a flying lesson, you can choose between an option which allows for a co-pilot (if you’re brave enough to tag along and try it out for yourself too) or stick to the ground and shoot some epic takeoff and landing videos so your loved one will have additional memories to look back on.

The excitement of such a memorable gift experience also takes place over an extended period of time, from the initial joy of receiving the gift, the anticipation leading up to the day, the fabulous day itself, and the memories that stay long after. Additionally, by gifting an experience, you get to be part of the process with that person – it’s not just a one-time handoff. One of the great things about sharing an experience with someone is that they become part of the story. Suddenly, “Remember that one time I took a flying lesson?” becomes, “Remember when Susan surprised me with a flying lesson for our anniversary, we had such a good time together!”

Leading up to the Day

While flight lessons don’t require any advance training, if your loved one is a planner here are a few bonus tips for them. The most important one to note is #1 you don’t actually have to know anything before your first lesson. Precisely because it’s a lesson, you’ll be learning everything you need to know! They can also check out the FAA’s Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge and Airplane Flying Handbook. Flying lessons are exhilarating at all times of the year, but the different seasons are definitely unique in what they offer. First things first, check with the company for their availability during the different months, but also consider how the experience may vary across the seasons (including the weather, scenery, and views) when planning the best time for this gift to take off!

Up in the Air

The day has finally come! You (because we don’t see anything wrong with self-gifting), your loved one, or both of you are really flying! Once the initial adrenaline stabilizes, they’ll be able to take a moment to look around. The sensation of suspended time will sink in as the wings effortlessly glide through endless sea of clouds, the world gently passing by underneath them. They’ll enjoy this special moment, and between the excitement, feel a great sense of tranquility. Although their heart will likely be racing, when they’re back on the ground you’ll both walk away with all those fantastic memories.
Closer Than you Think

Living in a big city doesn’t mean that flight lessons are only something to be dreamt of. You may be surprised that there are actually options available right in New York City, and more just a short drive outside. You and your loved one know the city’s distinct skyline from the ground, and even from the water – but you’ll both undoubtedly be surprised by the entirely new perspective you gain from being up in the air.

If all goes well, this could be the first of many lessons. Help make the transition from passenger to pilot a reality with the unique gift of flight. An individual lesson over Long Island or Westchester County, NY, an individual lesson in Morristown, NJ or a two-person option. The sky’s the limit!

Thanks for reading!

…And that concludes our guide to the gift of flight. Flying experiences are a truly unique way to show a loved one you care – by taking them up into the clouds! Maybe you’re still looking for an airborne experience gift for the aerial enthusiast in your life? You can browse our full range of airborne experiences here. If you have any questions about giving the gift of flight, please feel free to leave a comment – we’d love to hear from you!