Fly a Plane in New Orleans: No Experience or License Required

It’s not every day you get the chance to pilot a plane, especially if you’ve never flown before. But that’s exactly what this Fly a Plane in New Orleans experience offers — a 50-minute flight guided by a certified FAA instructor, where you get to help control the plane during takeoff and landing. It’s a real thrill for anyone curious about flying, with no prior experience needed.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it makes flying feel. First, there’s the hands-on control—you’ll actually participate in the takeoff and landing, which is pretty rare for a flight experience. Second, the incredible views of the French Quarter, the Mississippi River, and the Superdome are genuinely breathtaking. The only potential downside? The cost might seem steep for just under an hour of flying time, but considering the level of involvement and the professional guidance, many find it worth every penny.

If you’re someone who’s excited by unique adventures, enjoys stunning cityscapes, and has a bit of curiosity about flying, this experience could be perfect. It’s not just a sightseeing tour, but a mini pilot-training session that makes you feel more connected to the skies — even if flying isn’t your daily routine.

Key Points

• Hands-on flying experience with expert guidance, perfect for first-timers.
• Stunning aerial views of New Orleans landmarks, including the French Quarter and Mississippi River.
• No previous flying experience or license required, making it accessible for almost anyone.
• Includes a First Flight Certificate to remember your adventure.
• Duration of about 50 minutes, with 20 minutes of ground instruction and 30 minutes of actual flight.
• Booking tends to be made around 51 days in advance, so plan ahead if you’re interested.

What You Can Expect from This Flight Tour

This isn’t your typical sightseeing flight. The experience kicks off right at Lakefront Airport, where you’ll meet your pilot instructor and receive a 20-minute ground briefing. During this time, you’ll learn the basics — from engine start to taxiing and takeoff procedures. It’s straightforward but gives you a real sense of how pilots handle aircraft.

After the pre-flight tutorial, you’ll hop into the cockpit with your instructor, who will guide you through the first takeoff. Here’s where the magic happens: you’ll get to help control the plane, following the instructor’s directions. You’ll be actively involved, maneuvering during the ascent and descent, giving you a real taste of what it’s like to be a pilot.

Once you’re in the air, you’ll enjoy about 30 minutes of flying over New Orleans. Expect views of the French Quarter beautifully hugging the Mississippi River, iconic landmarks like the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, and the winding bayou systems surrounding the city. The instructor will point out various sights, and you’ll learn how pilots navigate these busy skies.

As the flight wraps up, you’ll assist with the landing, concluding your adventure with a safe touchdown. Don’t forget to ask for your First Flight Certificate — a perfect souvenir for this extraordinary experience.

The Highlights That Make This Flight Special

The best part? The opportunity to fly a plane with professional supervision, which many say makes all the difference. Multiple reviews mention how much fun and how easy it was, even for those with no experience. One reviewer said, “It’s easier than expected!!” and described it as a great experience they’d recommend to friends.

Another reviewer loved the personalized interaction with the instructor. “Guide was great. Encourage me to really fly the plane,” they said. That hands-on approach really stands out. In fact, several reviews highlight how much they appreciated feeling safe and well-guided while taking the controls.

The views are another major highlight. Flying over the French Quarter, seeing the Superdome, and following the Mississippi River all create an unforgettable visual backdrop. One reviewer mentioned, “You really do fly the plane for nearly the entire flight,” which means you’ll get a real perspective of what flying is like, all while enjoying these scenic sights.

Practical Details and What They Mean for Your Trip

Location and Duration: The entire experience happens at Lakefront Airport, starting and ending there. It lasts about 50 minutes, which is a solid chunk of time to get a real feel for flying without it dragging on.

Booking and Confirmation: Most travelers book about 51 days in advance, which is good to keep in mind if planning for a busy season. Be sure to call the provider at least 12 hours before your scheduled flight to confirm your time and any observers, as these need to be arranged in advance.

Cost & Value: At $284.80 per person, this might seem pricey, but considering you’re actively involved in flying, plus the scenic views and the First Flight Certificate, many find it to be a worthwhile splurge. It’s a unique experience that offers more engagement than a typical helicopter or airplane tour.

Inclusions: You’ll have a professional pilot with over 20,000 hours of experience, live commentary, and your certificate — making it feel professional but personal.

Restrictions & Considerations: The tour is suitable for ages 10 and up. Because of safety and weight restrictions, the combined weight of all passengers can’t exceed 450 lbs, with no individual over 300 lbs. Weather can impact scheduling, so be flexible with your plans.

What You Should Know: There are no restroom facilities on the plane, so plan accordingly, and avoid large bags — small purses or backpacks only. Also, dress appropriately for the weather since there’s no A/C in the plane, especially in summer.

Authentic Travelers’ Perspectives

Many who’ve tried this share how much fun they had and how knowledgeable the instructor was. One person said, “Great instructor! Learned so much and had a wonderful experience,” which highlights how professional and approachable the guides are. Others appreciated how hands-on it was, with comments like, “You really do fly the plane for nearly the entire flight,” and “It’s easier than expected.”

Not everyone’s experience was perfect, though. One reviewer was disappointed because their friend couldn’t participate fully due to a mechanical issue with the aircraft, but the provider responded by offering a credit and attempting to resolve the situation quickly — showing they do try to keep things smooth.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers, aviation enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a memorable story to tell. It’s suitable for those who want a taste of flying without committing to lessons or licenses. It’s particularly great if you love scenic views and enjoy being actively involved in unique experiences.

However, it’s not for people prone to motion sickness or who are pregnant, and you’ll need to be comfortable with a small aircraft environment. If you’re traveling with children, ensure they meet the age requirements — this isn’t an explicitly family-focused activity, but kids over 10 can enjoy it.

FAQ

Do I need a pilot’s license or experience?
No, this experience is designed for beginners. No prior flying experience or license is required.

How long is the flight?
The total duration is about 50 minutes, including 20 minutes of ground instruction and 30 minutes of flying.

Can I bring observers?
Yes, observers can be added for an extra fee, but they need to be confirmed 12 hours in advance. A maximum of two observers is allowed.

What should I wear?
Dress weather-appropriate, as there’s no A/C in the plane. No large bags or food/drinks are allowed on board.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 10 and above can participate. Younger children or those with motion sickness might want to reconsider.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before your flight. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are not refunded.

What about weather disruptions?
Flights are subject to weather conditions. If weather isn’t suitable, the provider will reschedule at no charge within two weeks.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a truly memorable adventure that combines scenic views with a hands-on flying experience, this tour in New Orleans offers a lot of value. It’s perfect for those curious about aviation, or anyone wanting an extraordinary story to tell. The professionalism of the guides, the breathtaking sights, and the personal control you get make it stand out.

While it’s not a cheap outing, for the opportunity to pilot a plane over one of America’s most vibrant cities, many consider it well worth the price. Just be sure to plan ahead, confirm your booking, and come ready for a fun, slightly nerve-wracking, but ultimately unforgettable ride.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a curious traveler, or simply looking for a unique gift experience, this flight in New Orleans could be just the ticket.