30 Minute Dambusters Helicopter Ride

Experience the thrill of aviation history and the beauty of the Peak District like never before with our Dambusters helicopter rides. 

Named after the iconic World War II mission, this tour will transport you to a time when daring Lancaster bombers roared low over the enemy territory to carry out a perilous dam-busting mission. On the night of 16 May 1943, 617 Squadron set off from RAF Scampton, and now, you can relive their courage from the sky.

As you soar through the skies, you'll be treated to spectacular views of the Peak District. From the stunning Chatsworth House to the mesmerising Mam Tor rock formations, and the historic Lady Bower reservoir in the Derwent Valley, this tour will take you on a journey through some of the most picturesque landscapes in England. 

It's not just about the views, though; it's about the history. You'll have the unique opportunity to appreciate the aviation history of the Dam Busters while gazing upon outstanding natural beauty.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this tour offers a blend of historical significance and scenic wonder that will leave you in awe. Don't miss out on this opportunity to relive history while taking in the breathtaking landscapes of the Peak District.

*This isn’t a private flight. If you book for 3 people for example, the one spare space to make up 4 passengers could be filled by someone from another booking.*

Is this experience weather dependant? 

Yes, all flights are subject to weather, operational factors and are subject to the possibility of short notice cancellation.

As the weather is ever changing, the pilot will not make a decision until 6pm the evening before your flight. Please do follow the weather check process on your boarding pass

It is important to note that things can change at the last minute and whilst we try our best to predict the weather, reports are not always accurate.

Please note
Helicopter experiences are subject to weather, aircraft serviceability, operational matters and availability. Once you have booked your helicopter experience, you are bound by the terms of the experience provider and in the event of 3 or less cancellations, you will be obliged to rebook the experience, rather than exchange or have a refund.

Is this experience private? 

All helicopters can seat at least 4 people, but there are a few helicopters that have 6 spaces, so exclusivity is not guaranteed. 

Co-Pilot Seat

There may be an option to upgrade (when booking) to sit in the front of the aircraft in the Co-Pilot seat. There will be an upgrade cost to this which varies in price depending on the duration of the flight.

If you have purchased a "For 4" voucher (where available), this voucher will include the front co-pilot seat, so no upgrade is needed.

If you were to purchase 4 x For 1 vouchers, this would not include the front co-pilot seat and would be for rear seats only. An additional upgrade cost would be needed if one of you wanted to sit in the co-pilot seat. 

What is the maximum participant weight?

Flying activities have maximum weights (per seat) to ensure health and safety along with the comfort of fellow passengers.

You must enter passenger/participant weight at the time of booking an experience. If weight varies between the time of initial booking and date of flight experience it remains the responsibility of the customer to update their individual weight via their online account prior to flight.

All passengers will be weighed before flight and if disparity exists between weight disclosed and actual weight (within reason), the passenger may be ineligible to fly.

The following weight restrictions cover multiple flying experiences:

Aeroplane Flying Lessons (2 Seater Aircraft) – Max 15 Stone (95kg)

Aeroplane Flying Lessons (4 Seater Aircraft) – Max 18 Stone (114kg)

Helicopter Flying Lesson - Max 15 Stone (95KG)

Pleasure Flights (Helicopter)
Group size of One – Max 15 Stone (95kg)
Group size of Two – Max 30 Stone (190kg)
Group size of Three – Max 43 Stone (273kg)
Group size of Four – Max 56 Stone (355kg)
Group size of Five – Max 66 Stone (420kg)
Group size of Six - Max 76 Stone (485kg)

Please note that the maximum weight limit for the Co Pilot Seat on a helicopter pleasure flight varies depending on aircraft and other operational considerations but will not exceed 95kg.

If as a party of one you weigh in excess of 15 stone, you may still be able to fly however you will need to purchase an additional seat. This seat will either have to remain unoccupied or can be occupied by an individual as long as the combined total as listed above is not exceeded. However, a total individual weight of 20 stone cannot be exceeded.

Is there an age limit? 

Shared Helicopter Flights – 6 years to 16 years (accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket). There is no maximum age limit.

Private Helicopter Flights - 2 years (accompanied). There is no maximum age limit.

Is there a maximum height?

The maximum height is 6ft 6 for helicopter rides.

Can I fly whilst pregnant? 
 

We are happy to fly pregnant passengers however we cannot give medical advice, please consult your doctor if you have any concerns at all before taking your flight.

Photos

A photographer is present at every flight and customers can have their photos taken outside and inside of the helicopter. The framed photos will be available to purchase after the flight for £15.