FAQs
This page is dedicated to answering any additional questions you may have. If you can't find your answer here or you would rather speak to someone in person, you can contact us via the details at the bottom of the page.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to join for?
There is a minimum joining time of just 12 months, and after that, you can leave the group with three month's notice.
How much are the aircraft?
The prices can be found on the 'Our Fleet' page. These prices are wet and inclusive of VAT (where applicable) and landing fees at Blackbushe.
How are the costs calculated?
All the aircraft are billed via the use of an automated flight logging system called AviOps. We charge in Block time, so from the moment the aircraft moves for the purposes of a flight until the moment it becomes stops. This time is invoiced monthly. The amount(s) invoiced will be the actualblock time data, based on the hourly rates. We used to bill on tacho times, however with this system, it makes it far cheaper and far more accurate for the member.
Are there any other costs?
There is a monthly membership charge of £135, this is payable by standing order one month in advance. Or we have an Annual Membership which is £1485, paid annually in advance. A £300 deposit is required, this will be refunded when you leave the group.
Do I have to pay towards the insurance?
All the aircraft are fully insured and the premium is included in the hourly and monthly rates. However, each insurance policy carries a high excess which varies from aircraft to aircraft. Schedule 2 of the Membership agreement dictates what the insurance excess is in the event of a claim.
What are the landing fees at Blackbushe?
The landing fees at Blackbushe for a visiting aircraft weighing upto 1500kg are currently priced at £27.80. We pay all Blackbushe landing fees including touch and gos and therefore, there is nothing to pay if you are a member. We cover this cost within the rates.
Can I take the aircraft away for trips?
Yes, you can take the aircraft away for trips including overnight stays for up to 72 hours. Any more than this needs to be agreed in advance and a minimum rate will become payable. We do ask however that you fly an average of 2.5 hours per day whilst the plane is away.
Is there a minimum licence hours requirement to join?
This is dependent on the aircraft. It ranges from 1 hour to 150 hours depending on the type.
I am a newly qualified pilot, can i join?
We welcome pilots of all skill levels. There may be restrictions on what you can fly based on your accrued P1 hours, but we will find something that suits you. Afterall, we all started with 'zero' hours at some point!
I am working towards my CPL/ATPL’s and would like to hour build, can the group offer any packages?
We do offer an hour builder package on our Reims Cessna 150 and on our Beechcraft Duchess. Ask us for more details.
How do I book an aircraft?
All aircraft bookings are made via our online web based booking system and are on a first come first served basis. We also operate a waitlist system.
Can I do further flight training in the group aircraft?
Yes, the group has access to some great instructors at Blackbushe Aviation who are able to offer further flight training, IMC, licence revalidations, renewals, proficiency checks, IR, CPL, MEP etc.
How long is the check out and what aircraft will I use?
The check out generally only takes about one hours flying time if you have flown our aircraft type previously. It will probably be longer if you need familiarisation training. Due to the close proximity of some very Class D airspace we also carry out a detailed ground brief. This ensures that by the time you have completed the check out you are fully familiar with the circuit and the surrounding airspace restrictions at Blackbushe. Generally the whole check out process takes from 1 to 6 hours depending on your personal preferences, abilities and whether the sign off includes a complex and or turbo sign off at the same time.
Once I am checked out, can I fly any aircraft in the group?
You will need to be current on type to fly any aircraft in the group. Most members stick to one aircraft that they like, but some fly all of the aircraft on the fleet depending on their mission.
What if I have never flown that type before?
That’s no problem as the differences in training can be incorporated at the same time as the check flight, but will obviously take slightly longer depending on your experience and how quickly you adjust to the type.
How many planes are there?
Currently, we operate seventeen aircraft in the group. We have plans for further aircraft as the group grows.
Are there any problems with availability?
No. with a healthy fleet number, availability is excellent all year round. There can obviously be some busy weekends in the fine summer months, but weekdays are never a problem. We assess this regularly to ensure that the dynamic of the group is always well mixed with both weekend and weekday fliers. Check out our reviews!
What else does the group have to offer me?
By becoming a member of the Blackbushe Flying Group you will have access to a fleet of extremely well maintained and presented aircraft which you will be able to fly with the absolute minimum of hassle. Book your aircraft, turn up, complete your daily checks and go flying. If you have any technical problems you just report it to us and we do the rest. There is no additional cost to you.
There are experienced instructors familiar with all the aircraft who are usually easily contactable to offer practical help and advice if required. Lifejackets & Liferafts are available to hire from Blackbushe Aviation (free to flying school members). All aircraft carry a PLB where an ELT is not fitted to comply with the updated ANO.
Would there be an opportunity to fly with others within the group?
Yes, we have a very active ‘Fly Out’ group and there are always other members who can be contacted via the booking system notice board ready to share flights.
How do I go about joining?
Get in touch with Dan Lassiter on the contact details below. Once we have had a chat, we will arrange to meet you and show you the aircraft. We can arrage a trial flight if you wish. These are charged at the standard hourly rate and may need an instructor present depending on the aircraft - We can tell you about this when you call.
Once we are all happy, then we have a membership contract to complete and then you will need to book your sign off.
Then just book, turn up, check out and fly!