Discovery flight
Helicopter Discovery Flight in Aix-en-Provence
Rotor Club Aixois offers helicopter discovery flights in Aix-en-Provence. Take the controls, fly over Provence and live a unique flying experience — with a certified instructor by your side.
Sightseeing flight or discovery flight: what's the difference?
Looking for a helicopter sightseeing flight in Aix-en-Provence or Provence? In France, sightseeing flights ("baptêmes de l'air") are reserved for commercial air transport companies. As a flying club approved as a DTO by the French civil aviation authority (DGAC), we don't offer sightseeing flights — we offer something better: piloting discovery flights.
The difference is fundamental. On a sightseeing flight, you're a passenger. On a discovery flight at Rotor Club Aixois, you're the pilot. From the very first minutes, your instructor hands you the controls. You control the aircraft's track, altitude and attitude. This isn't a joyride — it's your first flying lesson.
An unforgettable experience, open to everyone
Who hasn't dreamed of flying a helicopter over the landscapes of Provence? Thanks to Rotor Club Aixois, this adventure is possible, supervised and safe, whether you're an aviation enthusiast, curious for new sensations, or seriously considering becoming a private pilot. The helicopter discovery flight is open to everyone, with no prior experience required. There's no technical prerequisite — just the desire to fly.
Who can try helicopter flying?
- Minimum age: 14 (with parental consent for minors)
- Physical condition: no particular requirement
- Experience: none — that's precisely the point of the flight
Ideal for
- Giving a unique gift
- Trying it out before committing to PPL(H) training
- Living an exceptional moment, alone or with company
What happens during a discovery flight?
- 1
Briefing
Before boarding, your instructor welcomes you and explains the world of helicopters: flight principles, how the controls work (cyclic, collective, anti-torque pedals), safety procedures, and how the flight will unfold. This briefing is essential — it lets you be an active participant in the flight, not just a spectator.
- 2
Flight
Pre-flight checklist complete, headset on: we take off. As soon as conditions allow, your instructor hands you the controls. You'll feel the characteristic lightness of the helicopter, the freedom of movement on all three axes, and the landscapes of Provence opening up beneath you: the Sainte-Victoire mountain, the Crau plain, the Étang de Berre lagoon, the Mediterranean coastline.
- 3
Debrief
Back on the ground, your instructor reviews the flight with you: what you handled well, what's worth working on, and the natural next step if you'd like to continue — PPL(H) training.
Which helicopters?
Depending on the package chosen and the number of participants, you'll fly in one of our aircraft:
Cabri — G2
2 seats (pilot + instructor) — ideal for a solo discovery flight
R44 — Cadet
2 seats (pilot + instructor) — the two-seat version of the R44, an alternative to the Cabri G2 for a solo discovery flight
R44 — Clipper II
4 seats — perfect for a discovery flight with 2 or 3 people alongside an instructor
All three aircraft are recent, well maintained, and perfectly suited to training and discovery flights. Your instructor will introduce you to the aircraft's specifics during the briefing.
The exceptional setting of Aix-les-Milles
Rotor Club Aixois is based at Aix-les-Milles aerodrome, just minutes from the centre of Aix-en-Provence and less than 30 minutes from Marseille. You'll benefit from:
- A human-scale, non-profit club (French "loi 1901" association), where individual support is a priority
- Exceptional sunshine — over 300 days of sun a year in Provence, ideal for helicopter flying
- Varied landscapes: garrigue scrubland, limestone massifs, Mediterranean coastline, Luberon, Alpilles
- Easy access from Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, Arles, Salon-de-Provence or Aubagne
Give a discovery flight as a gift
A helicopter discovery flight is one of the most memorable gifts you can give — a birthday, Father's Day, a retirement present, a corporate event. We offer personalised gift vouchers, valid for a set period. Discover our gift voucher offer.
How much does it cost?
Prices depend on the flight duration and the number of participants (which determines the aircraft needed): from €450 for a discovery flight. Contact us for a personalised quote based on your wishes. Reminder: as a non-profit association, our rates are among the most competitive in the PACA region.
How do I book?
Fill in the contact form or call us directly. We'll confirm availability and let you know the next available slots.
Frequently asked questions about the discovery flight
Do I need to book a discovery flight far in advance?
We recommend booking at least 1 to 2 weeks ahead, more during peak season (spring-summer). Contact us to find out about the next available slots.
Can the discovery flight be cancelled due to weather?
Yes, safety always comes first. If the weather isn't suitable, the flight is rescheduled as soon as possible at no extra cost.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing is enough. The headset and flight equipment are provided by the club — just avoid loose clothing that could get in the way of the controls.
Can I film or take photos during my discovery flight?
Of course, we even encourage it! Just let your instructor know beforehand if you'd like to use an onboard camera during the flight.
Do discovery flight hours count towards PPL(H) training?
Yes: hours flown with an instructor during a discovery flight can be logged in your flight logbook if you go on to PPL(H) training.