Read on to learn more about the top things to keep in mind when planning long-distance flights and the top aero clubs in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur more simply known as PACA, is one of the eighteen administrative regions of France. It is located at the far southeastern point of the mainland with the main prefecture and largest city being Marseille.
This region is known for its concentrated Mediterranean features, its historical significance, cultural importance, and of course, its diverse manmade features. From the French Riviera to coastal areas like Nice and Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur has something for everyone.
It is especially alluring for private pilots who want to explore new areas and experience breathtaking views and charming cultures. If you have been planning to visit this region then this guide is just for you!
Read on to learn more about the top things to keep in mind when planning long-distance flights and the top aero clubs in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
Post-Brexit – Travelling to Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur for UK Pilots
Brexit has had a profound impact on not just geography and economics but also legislation. As per the recent policies set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), UK pilots will need to fulfil the minimum requirements for travelling to regions outside of UK airspace.
Here is everything that you need to know about the legal requirements for travelling to Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur from Sherburn:
Customs and Immigration:
When travelling outside of the UK, pilots will be required to fulfil customs requirements that will grant them access to post-Brexit regions.
This means pilots will need to provide comprehensive flight plans and clear customs at the point of entry in France. An important note to keep in mind is that not all airstrips provide customs facilities which is why you will likely have to travel to a full-fledged airport to fulfil these requirements.
Make sure that you plan your entry and exit points carefully and mention them in your flight plan to avoid inconvenience.
Flight Plan Submission
UK pilots will be required to submit their flight plans through appropriate platforms such as Eurocontrol. These documents can include details about the departure and destination airports along with a copy of a validated licence and other supporting documents highlighted by the Civil Aviation Authority.
Licence Requirements
According to the EASA, UK pilot licences are no longer valid in the EU post-Brexit.
UK pilots must obtain either an EU-issued EASA licence or a UK Part-FCL licence that can grant them access to flights outside of UK airspace. In some cases, UK pilots may be required to apply for a French conversion or fly with a permit that is acceptable in France under specific conditions. We recommend that you consult with a specialist at your aero club who can facilitate your itinerary and help you through the process of fulfilling the legal requirements. Aero clubs like Sherburn have a dedicated staff designed to help UK pilots fulfil all the minimum requirements to fly outside of the UK without problems.
Medical Certificates
According to the EASA, UK CAA-issued medical certificates may not be valid for flying in France. UK pilots may need to obtain or validate their medical certificates according to the EU standards to avoid inconveniences. Your aero club is the best place to start for obtaining specific information about the medical certificate requirements. We recommend that you consult with a Certified Medical Examiner at your club to quickly process the legal requirements for flying outside of the UK.
Aircraft Registration
Finally, although G-registered aircraft or UK-registered aircraft can still operate in France, pilots must ensure that they comply with any additional local requirements which may include insurance coverage or temporary permits that may be needed for certain aircraft categories.
Best Aero Clubs in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur to Fly to From Sherburn
Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is one of the best destinations for private pilots looking to break the mould and experience new areas. This region offers a blend of top-tier aeroclubs and breathtaking locales which makes it the perfect getaway for aviation enthusiasts.
Here are some of the best aeroclubs in the region:
Aéroclub Saint-Rémy Les Alpilles
Located in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France, this club offers exciting glider flights over the Alpilles. We guarantee that this club will provide both new and veteran pilots with stunning aerial views of the region!
The club has been a long-standing aviation centre for enthusiasts in the region and thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, it is one of the friendliest aviation spots in the region. The club also offers introductory flights and aerobatic experiences which are sure to fulfil the needs of any type of pilot.
Association Aéronautique Provence Côte d'Azur
Situated in Fayence, France, and known for its friendly atmosphere, this small but bustling aero club offers gliding experiences with experienced pilots who are well-versed with the regions and the areas of interest around PACA. Soar over picturesque landscapes and enjoy the breathtaking horizons from this uniquely positioned club.
While this is centrally a gliders club, the faculty and student body actively welcome pilots from all walks of life which makes it an excellent choice for pilots looking to try something new.
Cannes Aviation Academy
Ideally located in Cannes, France, this club has established itself as a highly professional flight training centre.
Since it is located inside Cannes-Mandelieu Airport, the club offers all the basic amenities that visiting pilots might need for networking and making friends. The club has a range of aviation services and provides a prime aeronautical environment due to its favourable location.
Aéroclub du Comtat Venaissin
If you are looking to explore the beauty of the region then look no further than Aéroclub du Comtat Venaissin. Located in Pernes-les-Fontaines, France, the club provides both flight training and discovery flights making it an ideal place for pilots of all skill levels. The club also allows pilots access to key locations, like the Vaucluse region which makes it an ideal place for aerial photographers and casual flyers!
Aéroclub Aix Marseille
Based at Aix Les Milles Airport, this club has something for everyone! Whether it is flight training or recreational flying opportunities, this club is perfect for pilots who are looking to relax and enjoy friendly tours with one of the most capable pilots in the region. The club provides access to the Provence region which makes it an ideal spot for experiencing the best that this region has to offer.
Best places to fly in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Looking for a list of the best places to fly to in the region? Then we highly recommend that you consider visiting these remarkable destinations:
Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez is recognised for its beauty and charming culture. It is famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife which makes it the best place to start when visiting the region with friends. Flying into La Môle, Saint-Tropez Airport offers UK pilots convenient access to this glamorous coastal town.
Cannes
Cannes is widely known for its culture and historical significance in the entertainment industry. If you love movies and want to explore a culturally significant location, then we recommend that you begin here.
Cannes is known for its film festival and luxury boutiques and is accessible via Cannes-Mandelieu Airport. The best thing about this airport is that it caters specifically to private aviation which makes it an ideal entry point for UK pilots.
Nice
With a town this nice, it’s no wonder why so many tourists visit it! Known for the Promenade des Anglais and its rich cultural heritage, Nice is a must-visit for anyone who loves architecture, nature, and vibrant geographical landscapes. Accessible via Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, it features a private terminal for seamless arrivals and is a no-brainer for any visiting pilot who wants ease, convenience, and a great atmosphere.
Monaco
There is no better place than Monte Carlo! Experience a rich history, culture, and a range of diverse landmarks that are sure to entice anyone!
Monaco may not have its own airport, but it is accessible via a short helicopter transfer from Nice Côte d'Azur Airport which we think makes it a great place to begin since you get to experience the best that the region has to offer – plus a bonus helicopter ride!
Provence Countryside
Love vast expansive areas? If yes, then we can’t recommend the Provence countryside enough. Explore vast lavender fields and beautiful vineyards along with a rich culture and history. The countryside has several smaller airfields like those near Aix-en-Provence which allows it to offer a tranquil escape into rural France.
Starting Your Trip the Right Way
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur is located within 1,700 km of Sherburn. For long-distance flights, pilots must use best practices to make the most out of their trips.
Here is how you can plan a trip to Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur from Sherburn:
Always Plan Proactively!
A flight plan is your best bet for getting the most out of your trip, especially when it comes to long-distance flights. Your flight plan will be the life and blood of your trip and will ideally contain information about every little detail regarding the flight.
A great and comprehensive flight plan will usually include information about the terrain, weather forecasts, restricted airspace, alternative routes, budgeting, primary flight routes, appropriate documentation for flying outside of the UK, and much more.
More importantly, your flight plan will include the ceiling values for fuel calculations which are vital for long-distance trips. The plan will also include the entry and exit points along with the total number of stops you will be required to make during your journey.
If you are planning a long-distance flight for the first time, then we recommend that you be proactive and take your time to perfect your flight plan. For the best experience, start gathering information about the trip from your flight club. Consult with instructors and experienced pilots who have made similar trips. This practice can help you build a tighter flight plan and allow you to learn more about how to make complex flight plans.
Make the Most of your Flight Club
Aeroclubs provide several free resources that pilots can use to make more informed decisions about the particulars of their journey. Top aero clubs, like Sherburn, provide many resources to all its members and pilots which include access to tools like Meteorological Aerodrome Reports (METARs) which are used to obtain accurate weather conditions. You can also use complex software to help you with fuel calculations depending on your aircraft of choice. We recommend that all pilots use these resources to make their trips stress-free and more memorable.
Get Ahead on Bookings
As with any travel plan, prior bookings are a must. Aero clubs follow strict regulations and pilots must announce their arrival and make all the necessary lodging bookings (if applicable) in advance. When travelling long-distance, pilots must cover all bases and carefully plan their trip to avoid unnecessary delays.
We recommend that you pick your entry and exit points smartly and start with aero clubs located inside established airports. Keep in mind that aero clubs tend to have a lot of traffic depending on the time of year with the busy season seeing hundreds of visiting pilots from various regions. This is why you should always visit the website of the aero club that you want to visit to obtain as much information as you can. We also recommend that you call the club to get the most up-to-date information since some clubs may not always update their website.
Always acquaint yourself with the specific policies of the club. For example, some clubs may have specific policies for visiting pilots which may include a zero-tolerance noise mitigation policy. This policy is usually used by clubs located near dense populations. In some cases, you might come across aero clubs that have restricted airspaces around the region which will require you to adjust your flight plan accordingly.
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 Ulysse Pointcheval on Unsplash
