In this guide, we will learn about aeroclubs in general, how they operate, the services they offer, and how you can design a flight plan to visit multiple aeroclubs in Hampshire!
Hampshire is well-known for its range of top-class aeroclubs full of enthusiastic aviators. If you have ever wanted to fly to one of these aeroclubs from Sherburn but don’t know where to start, then this guide is designed just for you.
In this guide, we will learn about aeroclubs in general, how they operate, the services they offer, and how you can design a flight plan to visit multiple aeroclubs in Hampshire!
The Importance of Aeroclubs
Believe it or not, aeroclubs have been around even before the advent of the modern aeroplane. Aviation has existed in some form or the other across history. You can even trace the origins of aviation to ancient Greece where philosophers took on the idea of aviation in a cerebral sense.
Since attempting to build an operable aircraft was understandably impossible at the time due to technological limitations, Greek philosophers instead focused on the implications of flight and how one would achieve it. The proof of this type of discourse can also be seen in mythology, especially in the tales of Daedalus and Icarus – both were given the gift of flight, and each had its own implications.
This initial discussion of aviation is considered to be an important cornerstone in the history of aviation because it is believed to have inspired future generations to ponder upon the idea practically.
Fast forward to the 16th century, and humanity had already developed the means to understand the dynamics of flight using science, specifically physics and mathematics. Interestingly, if you ask anyone about the first manned flight in human history, they will invariably refer to the Wright brothers.
The Wright brothers do hold the record for the first manned flight in a modern-design aeroplane, but the title for the first-ever recorded flight goes to three passengers: a sheep, a rooster, and a duck. That’s right, the Montgolfier brothers were the first people to invent the means to fly. Their design was based on a hot air balloon which was capable of vertical take-off. The balloon flew to about 6,000 feet and was heralded as the future of travel.
After their initial tests and successes, the brothers quickly began sending men up in the sky. The first manned flight took place on November 21, 1783! After that, the world suddenly became aware of the marvel of flight – and from this came about the birth of aeroclubs. How? Well, when interest in aviation reached a certain level, it became clear that aviators needed their own space where they could convene and discuss the future of this new and exciting field!
How Aeroclubs Operate
Soon after the success of the Wright brothers, progress in aviation began to skyrocket, especially after both World Wars where aeroplanes played a central role and government funding globally led to the boost in technological advances in aviation.
Just a decade after the first flight by the Wright brothers, there were already several aeroclubs around the globe. Initially, these aeroclubs played the role of providing a space for hangarage but more busy airfields also began taking on additional roles, such as managing air traffic, providing tutoring, and even engineering services.
Aeroclubs today have multiple roles, but their basic essence has always remained the same: to provide a space for like-minded individuals.
Why You Should Join an Aeroclub
Aeroclubs are excellent and necessary establishments for people who want to actively take part in aviation. These clubs provide aviators and future aviators with the means to learn and experience aviation in the best way possible.
Here are all of the benefits of joining an Aeroclub:
Flight Training
Let’s begin with the basics. Flight training is at the core of any great aeroclub. Premium aeroclubs, like Sherburn Aero Club, are specifically geared to produce highly capable pilots who go on to be of the greats. Flight training is an incredibly essential part of aviation and is something that every pilot must excel in if they want to step into a cockpit.
Whether you go for a private or commercial licence (more on this below), you will need to clear the theoretical and practical training set forth by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Aeroclubs provide all the amenities and facilities that pilots would require to complete their flight training. For example, enrolling at an aeroclub gives you access to a range of aircraft that you can train on. Some advanced aeroclubs, like Sherburn, also provide advanced training which includes simulation training.
Pursue Aviation as a Hobby
If you are someone who doesn’t want to make money from flying aeroplanes, then you may be interested in pursuing aviation as a hobby. Aeroclubs provide the perfect space for enthusiasts because not only can you meet like-minded individuals, but you can also train with them.
One of the best things about aeroclubs is that they foster an environment of growth and camaraderie. It is true when people say that the friends that you make at flight school are friends that you make for life!
Multiple Services Under One Roof
Aviation can be a complex field, especially with all the regulations associated with it. However, if you join an aeroclub, the flight school may be able to help you with the majority of tasks required to obtain a license. Modern flight schools work with governing bodies, such as the Civil Aviation Authority, so they can significantly decrease the friction between training and obtaining the necessary documents for your license.
For example, medical examinations are mandatory for all types of pilots but obtaining a medical certificate can be quite tricky and confusing. Thankfully, most comprehensive flight schools, like Sherburn, offer dedicated medical services via a Certified Medical Officer (CMO). This means that students can get their medical certificate extremely smoothly and the club can also help you determine all the fees and financing for your training as well.
Aeroclubs are Cost-Effective
It is no secret that aviation can be an expensive hobby. However, if you opt for an aeroclub, then you can introduce significant cost savings. For example, taking on aviation on your own would mean that you would have to bear the costs for the aircraft, its maintenance, fuel, hangarage, licensing, and various other variable and fixed costs. The total of this would come up to several hundred pounds, which wouldn’t make aviation a feasible endeavour. However, with aeroclubs, you can significantly bring down costs and some clubs may even offer financing options that can further make it easier for you to begin training.
Keep in mind that the aviation industry depends on the feasibility of these aeroclubs to attract more future pilots. If the initial cost is too high, then there wouldn’t be enough pilots to overcome the demand which is expected to rise year over year! So, it is in the best interest of the schools and the aviation industry in general to provide affordable services.
Why Fly to Hampshire?
Whether you are an inexperienced or veteran pilot, flying to and exploring other flight schools can be a beneficial activity that can help you progress in your aviation career – it can even help you further your enthusiasm for aviation!
Hampshire is home to not just beautiful scenic routes, but also a range of aeroclubs that are known to be one of the best in the country. Hampshire is within 250 miles of Elmet, which makes it an excellent place to visit for private pilots.
Why would you want to visit other aeroclubs? The truth is, in order to expand your horizons, it is best that you network with other pilots in other regions and learn how they approach aviation. Please keep in mind that aviation is an experience-based field where if you want to grow and progress, you must widen your gaze and always be willing to experience new things. The best way to do this is to visit other aeroclubs to exchange ideas and discuss the possibilities with aviation.
Networking is an incredibly important aspect of aviation and since pilots are accustomed to traveling in different regions, it is best to have connections in different places! Apart from networking, travelling from one aeroclub to another also promotes camaraderie and is an excellent way to celebrate the spirit of aviation!
Best Aeroclubs in Hampshire to Fly to From Sherburn
Here are some of the most noteworthy aeroclubs in Hampshire that you can fly to from Sherburn, Elmet:
Hampshire Aeroplane Club
The Hampshire Aeroplane Club (HAC) is not just a flight school, but it is also part of aviation history. The school is known to have played a big role in advancing the public interest in aviation around the region since its inception in the 1920s.
Based in Solent Airport, this aeroclub is one of the biggest and best places to visit in Hampshire. If you are flying out from Elmet to network and meet other pilots, then we highly recommend that you plan a trip here to learn more about the history of aviation, the role of this amazing flight school, and the community that powers this fantastic establishment.
Popham Airfield
This expansive airfield is located in Basingstoke. It’s a popular destination for pilots from across the UK and it is also home to a thriving community of aviation enthusiasts. Popham Airfield is conveniently located and will also provide you access to beautiful geographical features that you can visit in various light aircraft.
The best part about this airfield is that it is designed to promote networking. The club has a dedicated café where you can relax and meet other budding pilots. Popham Airfield is also known to host various aviation-related events, so you can also drop in with friends and even perhaps represent your own aeroclub!
Solent Airport
Previously known as Daedalus Airport, Solent Airport is located near the Lee-on-Solent. This airport was once a military airfield which is why it also has a lot of aviation history. This airport is known to produce one of the most capable pilots in the country and many pilots from around the UK visit here just to take part in the various aviation-related events held at the various aeroclubs inside the airfield. These qualities alone make Solent Airport a must-visit for people who plan to fly from Sherburn to Hampshire!
Thruxton Aero Club
Located inside Thruxton Airport near Andover in Hampshire, this aero club is specifically for people who love aviation and want to pursue the field as a career. This aeroclub is designed to provide comprehensive training to students and is known to produce highly capable pilots. Thruxton Aero Club is also perfect for pilots who want to boost their networking. Since this airport is usually busy, you are bound to bump into other like-minded pilots who share the same passion for aviation.
Andover Airfield
Andover Airfield is an expansive airfield that is home to a flying club that is geared towards providing advanced flight training. The airfield can accommodate both fixed-wing and flex-wing aircraft. The best part is that the airfield also welcomes helicopter pilots! That’s right, you can also visit this aeroclub in a helicopter and meet other helicopter pilots as well.
Andover Field also offers a range of amenities too! If you are visiting Hampshire, then we highly recommend that you fly into Andover and meet the flight instructors and students because they are considered to be one of the best!
Phoenix Aviation
Run by a group of enthusiasts and veteran pilots, Phoenix Aviation is one of the premier flight schools in Hampshire. Located on the Lee-on-the-Solent, Phoenix Aviation provides a friendly and nurturing environment where pilots can unleash and realise their full potential. This aeroclub welcomes pilots from all walks of life and is one of the best places to visit when flying to Hampshire.
Goodwood Flying School
Goodwood Flight School is another great place for enthusiastic and professional pilots to meet and network. Known for its private pilot training, the flight school is home to several types of light aircraft. You can expect to find a diverse group of students at this flight school, and since it is ideally located, you can also explore the beautiful surroundings that this airfield has to offer.
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 Scott Evans on Unsplash
