Read below to learn more about how to plan this exciting flight, the laws and jurisdictions of travelling to this region, and our picks for the best aero clubs in Overseas France.
Experience France at the ends of the world! Overseas France consists of 13 French territories outside Europe. These territories are mostly the remnants of the French colonial empire that remained a part of the French state under various statuses after decolonisation.
The interesting thing about this region is that most but not all its territories are part of the European Union which truly makes this a unique place for travellers!
Read below to learn more about how to plan this exciting flight, the laws and jurisdictions of travelling to this region, and our picks for the best aero clubs in Overseas France.
What UK Pilots Need to Know Before Travelling
If you think that your Private Pilot Licence (PPL) is limited in how and where you can travel, think again! A PPL is highly versatile and can allow you to plan both short and highly complex long-distance trips. However, in this case, a direct flight to oversees France might not be feasible or practical due to its distance from Sherburn, but there is a great way around this problem!
Instead of plotting a direct route to the region, you can enter French airspace and land at a conveniently located airfield and then slowly make your way to the region. Keep in mind that your point of entry and exit must provide customs facilities, and you should mention all the details of your journey including stops in your flight plan.
Furthermore, while there have been a few legislations changes due to Brexit, UK pilots can easily use their PPL to travel outside of UK airspace and enjoy the surrounding regions!
Here are a few important considerations that you need to keep in mind:
All About Licencing
Post-Brexit, UK pilots are unfortunately no longer recognised under the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations.
Private pilots holding a UK licence will need to validate their licence via the Civil Aviation Authority guidelines for flying in French airspace. Additionally, some pilots may also need additional certifications to fly within the EU.
Luckily, this process is very straightforward and if you have all the documents such as a copy of your UK pilot licence, medical certificate, proof of identity, and address, then you can get a temporary permit to fly into French airspace. Please note that private pilot will also need to submit their flight logbook with relevant flying hours along with an application form available on DGAC/EASA websites.
UK-based CAA-issued medical licences may also need to be validated as per the EASA rules. Keep in mind that these requirements are for private pilots. Commercial licence validation requires more stringent checks and can take longer to process.
Customs Clearance
Along with the documentation mentioned above, UK pilots must also ensure customs clearance when entering and exiting French airspace. Please note that smaller airports or aero clubs may not have customs facilities which is why we recommend that you pick your entry and exit points carefully and land at larger airports for more convenience.
Insurance Requirements
Insurance coverage isn’t the same everywhere. UK pilots should ensure that their insurance is valid for flights in France. Due to Brexit, UK policies may not provide the same level of coverage across all EU countries. We recommend that private pilots confirm their coverage with their insurance provider for more clarification.
ATC Rules and Policies
The best way to avoid embarrassment and, at worst, fines is to make sure that your equipment complies with French air traffic control regulations.
UK pilots must also acquaint themselves with local protocols and even specific aero club policies that may include noise abatement policies.
Pilots must consult with experts at their club and members who have already conducted similar flights for more information. Please also check in with the aero clubs that you want to visit in the region to find out more about their policies and specific etiquette when approaching, landing, and taking off.
Best Aero Clubs in Overseas France to Fly to From Sherburn
Overseas France includes regions like the Caribbean, Indian Ocean, and Pacific territories which makes it an ideal place for private pilots to enjoy recreational flying.
Here are our picks for the best aero clubs in the region:
Aéroclub de Nouvelle-Calédonie
Located in Nouméa, New Caledonia, this club provides flight training and recreational flying at great prices and utilises its highly professional instructors to help people realise their dreams in aviation. The club is ideally located and provides access to nearby landmarks and jaw-dropping natural sites – and of course, pilots visiting this club can also explore the stunning landscapes of New Caledonia!
Aéroclub Roland Garros
Located in Saint-Denis, Réunion Island, and named after the famous aviator, this club fully embraces aviation and celebrates it! The club offers various aviation activities, including pilot training and scenic flights over the island's volcanic terrain.
What makes this aero club so significant is its cultural importance in aviation! Roland Garros is considered to be a highly respected hero in the aviation community and if you want to experience the skies and feel how the legend used to fly, then there is no better place than this club.
Aéroclub de Tahiti
Looking for breathtaking views of the Pacific? Look no further than this club. Ideally located in Faa'a, Tahiti, this club offers access to French Polynesia and is by far the best way to explore the region's best geographic features. Explore scenic horizons and get jaw-dropping views of the Pacific islands.
The club features an impressive fleet along with a vibrant and friendly community of new and veteran pilots. We believe that pilots from all walks of life will feel right at home at this club.
Aéroclub de la Guadeloupe
Overseas France is known for its landscapes and if you want to explore the coastline along with lush flora then start here. This club is located in Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe, and offers bespoke flight training and leisure flights for casual flyers. Due to its unique location, you can witness the Caribbean's beautiful seascapes, sunsets, and of course dense landscapes.
Aéroclub de Guyane
Conveniently located in Cayenne, French Guiana, this aeroclub provides pilots with the chance to fly over diverse terrains, including rainforests and coastal areas. It is one of the most frequented clubs in the region due to its ideal location.
The club boasts a diverse fleet and sees several visiting pilots from all across the region. Its welcoming staff, friendly atmosphere, and bustling aviation community are sure to attract every type of aviation enthusiast.
Top Destinations for Private Pilots in Overseas France
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
If you want the most out of your getaway, there is no better place to start than Bora Bora. Known as a legendary tourist spot, Bora Bora is celebrated for its turquoise lagoons and overwater bungalows. It is by far the best (and most romantic) spot for travellers looking for recreational flying and relaxation.
The area offers stunning aerial views and can be conveniently accessed by flying into Bora Bora Airport also known as Motu Mute Airport.
Réunion Island
Reunion Island is famous for its dramatic volcanic landscapes which include the active Piton de la Fournaise volcano. While the volcano is dormant, you will still get stunning views from the skies, and we bet that you will leave with a changed perspective. The area is also known for its charming culture, rich history, and its diverse aviation scene. Private pilots can access the island via the Gillot Airport in Saint-Denis which also serves as the main entry point.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
If you are looking for a blend of culture, cuisine, and sightseeing, we recommend that you visit Noumea. The area offers a blend of French and Melanesian cultures and has one of the most beautiful beaches and marine life in the region.
Pilots will appreciate the hospitality, culture, and geographical beauty of this area and in our opinion, Noumea is THE place to take your significant other while travelling together! Pilots can access the area via La Tontouta International Airport since it also happens to be the primary airport in the region.
Les Saintes, Guadeloupe
Les Saintes is an archipelago which is universally known for its clear waters. If you are looking for leisure flying and recreational activities on the ground, then we can’t recommend this place enough. Its clear waters make it an ideal location for snorkelling and diving activities and its charming culture is sure to allure a diverse range of people. Les Saintes is accessible via Terre-de-Haut Airport which can also accommodate small aircraft.
Îles des Pins, New Caledonia
Renowned for its white sand beaches and tall pine trees, Iles des Pins is one of the most picturesque destinations in Overseas France. The area offers serene landscapes and a diverse range of flora and fauna. If you are looking for peaceful skies and a location with historical and cultural significance, then we recommend that you start here. Pilots can reach the area via Île des Pins Airport which serves the island.
A Guide for The Perfect Trip
Long-distance flights require considerable planning and preparation! If you want to make the most out of your trip and ensure that you get your money’s worth, then we recommend following a few simple but important best practices.
Here are some important tips to keep in mind for the best experience:
Start with a Strong Flight Plan
Always begin with a comprehensive flight plan. Your flight plan is a necessary document that isn’t only required for the sake of protocol but also because it allows pilots to navigate the skies without worry and with safety in mind.
Your flight plan will have several details about the specifics of your route which includes information about the weather, terrain, fuel calculations, lodging, budgeting, documentation, clearances, and much more. By planning and having this information in hand, pilots can confidently travel anywhere without stressing about multiple variables.
For the best experience, we recommend that you begin building your flight plan by consulting with veteran pilots at your aero club. The best scenario would be to talk with pilots who have made similar trips in the recent past. This can allow you to manage your expectations and allow you to plan a robust flight plan.
When you have all the details, draft a flight plan and share it with your instructors and experienced pilots to see if there are areas for improvement. A robust flight plan doesn’t only help pilots navigate the skies safely but can also help you obtain the required validation by EASA in the quickest time possible.
Announce your Arrival
Aero clubs are busy spaces with several aircraft going in and out of the airspace. This is why you need to book your spot beforehand, especially when travelling to very busy locations or during the busy season. Make sure that you book your arrival and have lodging sorted out near the aero club(s) that you want to visit.
A good best practice is to gather information directly from the clubs that you want to visit. Check out the website of the club or better yet, call the club in person and speak to a representative that can guide you with all your queries.
Budgeting Everything
Budgeting is an incredibly important exercise when planning long-distance flights. You will be required to make several budgets that also cover the worst-case case scenario for your trip. This can help you determine a minimum and ceiling value for your budget and can help you manage your expenses more efficiently.
Make sure that you account for various miscellaneous expenses like insurance fees, custom fees, parking fees, fuel expenses, and more.
Get your Documentation Sorted
We have already talked about the documentation required for travelling outside of the UK. However, pilots must also ensure that they can produce these documents on demand should they be asked for them during their journey by local authorities. Important documents include your pilot licence, medical certificate, clearance documents, custom forms, flight plan, and any written permission slips from the aero clubs that you want to visit.
These documents are hardly ever demanded by authorities, but in the worst-case scenario, you should always have them on hand to avoid problems with local authorities and aviation bodies.
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 Sergey Zhesterev on Unsplash
