Historical Flight in an Open Cockpit Biplane from WWII

If you’re into aviation or just looking for a truly memorable adventure, the Historical Flight in an Open Cockpit Biplane from WWII promises a one-of-a-kind experience. From what we gather, this isn’t your typical sightseeing flight — it’s an opportunity to step back nearly 80 years and feel what it was like to train as a WWII pilot. Whether you’re a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or someone curious about flying, this experience aims to deliver a blend of education, excitement, and stunning views.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines authenticity with active participation. You get to see the actual training aircraft used by WWII cadets, and there’s an open invitation to take the controls — not just watch from afar. Plus, the scenic flight over the McDowell Mountains sounds breathtaking, especially with the open cockpit letting you soak in the landscape in full view. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the physical requirement — you need to be comfortable climbing into and out of a small cockpit, which might not suit everyone.

This experience seems perfect for those who enjoy hands-on adventures, history enthusiasts keen to connect with the past, or anyone wanting a truly unique perspective on Arizona’s landscape. If you’re okay with the physical demands and are interested in flying a WWII-era plane, this could turn out to be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic WWII training aircraft offers a genuine historical experience.
• Opportunity to control the plane adds an interactive element that sets this apart.
• Scenic flight over McDowell Mountains provides stunning views and a memorable backdrop.
• Private tour ensures exclusivity for your group, making it more personalized.
• Approximate duration of 1.5 hours balances a thorough experience without overextending.
• Affordable compared to other aviation experiences in Arizona, with a good value for the price.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Concept and Overall Vibe

This is more than just a sightseeing flight — it’s a way to connect with aviation history firsthand. The plane used is a Stearman biplane, a model with roots in WWII training programs. These planes’ve flown thousands of young pilots, and flying one still feels like being part of that era. The experience starts with a preflight inspection, which is a nice touch — it’s educational and makes you feel involved from the get-go.

What Makes It Special

The open cockpit design is a highlight. Flying without a canopy means feeling the wind and hearing the roar of the engine directly — it’s a raw, visceral way to experience flight. Plus, the scenic views over the mountains are a bonus; the Arizona landscape is both rugged and beautiful, and from the air, it’s even more striking.

The instructor (referred to as Craig in one review) is praised for being knowledgeable and a great teacher. This adds confidence, especially for those who want to take the controls but might be nervous about flying a plane. The fact that you can choose to keep it smooth or spice things up with some energetic maneuvers makes it flexible for different comfort levels.

The Itinerary

The adventure begins at the meeting point located at 2745 N Greenfield Rd, Mesa. It’s a straightforward start, with most participants able to easily access the location, which is near public transportation options. The actual flight lasts about 30 minutes — enough time to enjoy the scenery and possibly take the controls — but the entire experience, including preflight and post-flight, spans roughly 1.5 hours.

The main highlight is the flight over McDowell Mountain Regional Park. You’re flying in an authentic WWII plane, giving a real sense of what pilots experienced decades ago. The flight over these picturesque mountains is the core of what makes this tour special.

The Physical Demands

While most travelers can participate, it’s worth noting that you need to be able to climb into and exit the cockpit under your own power. The cockpit is small — a typical feature of training planes of that era — so it’s not suitable for anyone with mobility issues or those uncomfortable with tight spaces.

The Price and Value

At $139.44 per person, this experience is quite reasonable given the uniqueness and educational aspect. Compared to other aviation or outdoor adventures in Arizona, it offers good value, especially considering you’re flying in an actual WWII training plane and possibly taking control yourself.

The Review and Feedback

One rave review from Igor_G sums it up well: “Excellent activity, Craig is knowledgeable and a great teacher. You get to actually fly the plane, and the views are worth it! A must-do!” It’s clear that the instructor’s expertise and the chance to pilot an historic aircraft are big draws.

There’s only one published review so far, but it’s a perfect 5-star. That suggests that once booked, most people are very satisfied with their experience.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, aviation enthusiasts, or adventure travelers who crave something beyond standard sightseeing. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a personalized, interactive experience that combines education with adrenaline. It might not suit those with mobility issues or those who prefer a less physically demanding activity, but for most able-bodied travelers, it’s a memorable way to connect with a pivotal moment in aviation history.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Phoenix and want to do something memorable, this open cockpit WWII biplane flight offers a rare chance to literally take the controls of a historic aircraft and enjoy spectacular mountain views. The knowledgeable guide, combined with the authentic aircraft and scenic flight, makes it a compelling choice for those interested in aviation or history.

While the physical requirement to climb into the plane could be a barrier for some, most will find the experience rewarding and uniquely immersive. It’s a well-priced adventure that delivers both education and excitement, perfect for a special outing or a standout highlight on your trip.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
While the info doesn’t specify age restrictions, the physical nature of climbing into a small cockpit suggests it’s better suited for older children or teens who can handle climbing and sitting in tight spaces comfortably.

How long does the entire experience last?
The total experience, including preflight, flight, and post-flight, takes about 1.5 hours. The actual flight in the plane is approximately 30 minutes.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the flight itself, preflight instructions, a scenic flight over the mountains, and the chance to control the aircraft if you wish. It’s a private tour, so only your group participates.

Is this a shared group experience?
No, it’s a private experience, so only your group will be on the plane, making it more personalized.

How physically demanding is climbing into the plane?
Participants should be comfortable climbing and exiting the cockpit on their own, as it involves stepping into a small, open aircraft.

What kind of aircraft will I fly in?
You will fly in a WWII training biplane, specifically a Stearman model used historically for pilot training.

Do I get to control the plane?
Yes, you’re invited to take the controls, making the flight interactive and engaging.

What are the best times to book?
Most travelers book about 38 days in advance, but check availability closer to your trip date, especially if visiting during peak seasons.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at 2745 N Greenfield Rd, Mesa, AZ. It’s accessible and near public transportation options.

If you’re craving a flight that offers a real taste of aviation history with a dash of adventure, this experience looks like a solid choice. It’s more than just a flight — it’s a chance to be part of the story.