This guide will focus on the best aeroclubs in the county as well as some of the landmarks that you can visit while flying over Dorset.
Looking to fly from Sherburn to Dorset but don’t know the best aeroclubs to land? Dorset offers a range of benefits for private pilots who want to either fly to connect with other pilots in Dorset, or to just enjoy the natural beauty that this county provides.
This guide will focus on the best aeroclubs in the county as well as some of the landmarks that you can visit while flying over Dorset. We will also cover the dos and don’ts of taking short-distance trips and the best way that you can optimise your trip to make the most of it.
Why Fly to Dorset?
Dorset is a county in southwest England that is known for its list of gorgeous geographical features. From hilly areas to sandy beaches to even a heritage site – Dorset is truly one of the most beautiful places to visit for pilots.
The county is also well-known for its range of aeroclubs that are located in various terrains, making it a diverse and attractive option for people who love jaw-dropping aerial views. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider visiting Dorset on a light aircraft:
Jurassic Coast
Anything with the name Jurassic is sure to pique the interest of any fan of fiction. Dorset is known for its Jurassic Coast which also happens to be a UNESCO-recognised world heritage site that gets visitors from various parts of the world. The coast is home to numerous cliffs and rock formations. The best part about this coastline is its stunning sunsets. We highly recommend that you explore this area in a flex-wing aircraft for the best experience (more on this below).
Beaches
If you like traditional geographical features, then Dorset also provides a range of beaches – this includes popular places such as Bournemouth Beach, Weymouth Beach, and more! Most pilots find the beaches of Dorset to be enough reason to make regular trips. If you plan to take someone special on a flight, then we highly recommend that you stop by the beaches for an unforgettable experience.
Chalk Downlands
Just near the coast, pilots can explore the vast rolling chalk downlands. This landscape is known for its scenic hills and it also includes other stunning geographical features such as the Dorset Downs and Cranborne Chase. These locations provide amazing aerial views and are great spots for aerial photographers to test out their creativity and imagination.
Isle of Portland
Portland is connected to Dorset via a causeway. The Isle of Portland is home to rugged terrain, coastal landscapes, and of course, the Portland Bill lighthouse which will surely prove to be a fantastic view from the sky. When flying over, pilots can get a holistic view of the water and land features which is extremely picturesque.
Lulworth Cove
Known for its horseshoe shape, Lulworth Cove is perhaps one of the best places to visit while flying over Dorset. The location provides a picturesque and breath-taking view from above which also includes the crystal-clear waters nearby. The cove is located near Durdle Door which itself is an iconic and visit-worthy limestone arch.
Caves and Caverns
Dorset may not be known for its caves, but it has a few noteworthy features that might interest pilots. Dorset is home to a number of limestone caves and caverns and you may even be able to spot some of them from the air. It’s a lesser-known geographical feature but one that is worthy of recognition, especially if you love exploration.
Dorset is also known for its history. Flying over, you can visit the iconic Maiden Castle, which is one of the largest and most famous hillforts in all of Europe. Pilots can also fly over Cerne Abbas Giant, a chalk hill figure that is sure to capture your imagination!
Picturesque Countryside and Farmland
Apart from its features near large water bodies, you can also experience expansive farmlands in Dorset. The region is also known for its pastoral countryside! You can fly over rural landscapes and witness vast and lush fields with a series of charming villages. Dorset is truly a place that offers something for everyone, and we guarantee that you will enjoy every second of your trip there.
Picking the Right Aircraft to Fly in Dorset – Important Tips
When it comes to short-distance traveling, you will need to keep a few things in mind. We have already discussed the best features of Dorset, but if you don’t pick the right aircraft for your trip, then you might be missing out on a lot of important experiences!
There are several types of light aircraft that you can choose from. Let’s first discuss fixed wings.
Fixed-wing aircraft are designed to mimic larger aircraft – meaning that they almost share the same design philosophy. These aircraft are designed to have an enclosed cockpit with a fuselage that can accommodate 2-6 passengers as well. These planes usually have a single engine but are powerful and efficient enough to make comfortable trips. In fact, fixed wings are the primary choice for most aircraft instructors due to the availability of a range of instrumentation, handling, and fuel efficiency.
If you plan to take several passengers along with you, then we recommend that you go for a fixed-wing aircraft. While the aircraft may provide limited aerial views due to its compact design, it is by far one of the best aircraft to take on short or long-distance trips with friends and family.
However, if you want something more personal, compact, and thrilling, then we recommend that you take a look at flex-wing aircraft. Dorset is prized for its views, and what better way to experience all that the terrain has to offer than to witness them in a flex-wing light aircraft!
These aircraft are designed to be lighter than fixed-wings and while they are less powerful, they are also extremely efficient since they don’t carry a lot of weight and are ideal for short-distance trips. The biggest attraction of flex-wings is its design. These aircraft are usually designed to have an open cockpit where the only thing separating the pilot and passenger from the environment is a thin windshield.
This means that you and a lucky passenger (yes, it can only seat one) can enjoy a 360-degree view and even “feel” the air as you glide across. The design of this aircraft also makes it a fantastic option for aerial photography. Both the pilot and the passenger can enjoy the terrain and features of Dorset together, which makes it the ideal vehicle for people who want to take someone special up with them!
Another way to enjoy Dorset is to opt for a helicopter. These aircraft are unique and can offer a lot of benefits over regular light aircraft. For example, helicopters can be used to fly to any geographical location – and you may even be able to land anywhere depending on the type of terrain! Some aeroclubs in Dorset also accommodate helicopters with dedicated landing pads. However, you will have to ensure availability before landing at any aeroclub.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Make a Detailed Flight Plan
A common mistake most inexperienced pilots make is that they fail to create a comprehensive flight plan. A comprehensive flight plan includes all the intricate details of your trip and also includes a range of redundancies that are put in place so that you can easily avoid mishaps and take remedial actions to continue with your trip.
An example of a poorly made plan would include superficial details regarding the trip that doesn’t account for the terrain type, routes, alternative routes, fuel calculations, weather forecasts, and aircraft maintenance checks.
As a certified private pilot, you are always expected to follow guidelines and regulations set by the CAA. These regulations keep the skies safe and can save you and your aircraft from unforeseen circumstances.
Make Prior Arrangements
If you want to make the most of your trip then we recommend that you make a few arrangements beforehand. For example, if you plan to visit several aeroclubs in a day, then you will have to obtain all the necessary information from each aeroclub.
Information like landing fees, availability, and air traffic conditions on a particular day can help you plan an efficient and cost-effective trip. Please remember that aeroclubs can also be privately owned, which means that you will need to obtain permission to land beforehand. Take a few days to plan your trip and call up the locations that you plan to land to be sure.
Narrow Down Your Expectations
There are several reasons to visit Dorset. The first is for leisure purposes where you can fly over the beautiful landscape and relax. The other is to visit aeroclubs and meet pilots for networking purposes. You can even make room for both reasons if you have the time!
If you want to visit aeroclubs for networking purposes, then make sure you pick busy airfields that also have adequate seating arrangements, like a café or a common resting area. Please keep in mind that some aeroclubs in Dorset may be in secluded areas, which means that you may not have access to a few amenities. This is why we recommend that you manage and narrow down your expectations so that you can make the most of your trip.
Best Aeroclubs in Dorset to Fly to From Sherburn
Bournemouth Airport
This is one of the quintessential places to visit in Dorset. Bournemouth Airport is the largest airport in the region and is home to both commercial and private aircraft. This airport will provide you with all the amenities that you would expect from a typical airport. It is the perfect place to visit to network with professional pilots and to refuel.
Sandbanks Heliport
Planning to visit Dorset in a helicopter? Then we highly recommend that you make a stop at Sandbanks Heliport. This airfield is located near Poole and is a convenient location for helicopter pilots.
Compton Abbas Airfield
Situated in North Dorset, Compton Abbas Airfield is known for its friendly atmosphere and its stunning views. This airfield is perfect for both flex and fixed-wing aircraft. You can also sit and enjoy the views from ground level or network with other passionate pilots in the airfield!
Bliss Aviation
Ideally located in Bournemouth Airport, this flight club is easily accessible by a fun flight from Elmet. It is home to several geographical features and is perhaps one of the best places for daytime flying. We recommend this airfield for people who are passionate about light aircraft because you can find both typical light aircraft and helicopters here! Bliss Aviation is also known for its community of enthusiastic pilots which makes it an excellent place for networking as well.
Dorset Gliding Club
If you enjoy gliders, then you will surely enjoy your time at the Dorset Gliding Club. This club is the ideal place for aviation enthusiasts and since the club is located in Eyres' field, it also offers a range of scenic views. Please keep in mind that this club might not be available for visiting pilots, so it is best to call them for confirmation.
Henstridge Airfield
Situated 7 miles west of Shaftesbury, Dorset, this airfield is the proud home of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. If you want to visit a typical, busy airfield full of passionate private and commercial pilots, then we highly recommend that you visit here.
Not only do they have all the amenities that you would require to relax or network, but they also offer jaw-dropping aerial views. The best thing about this airfield is that it is in proximity to both urban and rural landscapes. You can experience the best of Dorset from this airfield!
WHY CHOOSE SHERBURN AERO CLUB
Sherburn Aero Club, which has been operational since 1964, is the ideal place for most of your training and flying needs. It is one of the largest flying clubs in the North of England and also one of the largest in the country.
If you wish to begin your career in aviation or wish to take to the skies as a hobby, Sherburn’s flight training school offers private and commercial licences, along with pilot medicals to ensure a smooth journey going forward.
For those who wish to experience the thrill of a flight for fun or to help fuel their aviation dreams, Sherburn offers experience flights for the newbie, as well as the veteran in various types of light aircraft.
With a large fleet of new aircraft and an airfield refurbishment with new runways, hangars, and an extended clubhouse, we cater to brand-new flyers who have just started their journey to the skies, as well as seasoned flyers who have been operating aircraft for decades.
The flight experience option is also available for people who wish to take to the skies for special occasions, even if they aren’t into aviation in the long run.
Sherburn offers a dedicated day-long Flight Radiotelephony Operator’s Licence (FRTOL) course for those wishing to get the certification, running the first Sunday of every month.
In addition to that, if you are looking for a hangarage for your own aircraft, need servicing or repairs, want to buy a new aircraft or aviation equipment, or are just looking to enjoy and watch the aircraft, Sherburn Aero Club is the place to be.
Call us at 01977 682 674, email us at flightdesk@sherburnaeroclub.com, or message us via our online contact form for more information on light aircraft, training requirements, fee structure, licencing procedures, as well as experience flights and pilot training at Sherburn.
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
