Question 1

How does Flyinn work?

Accepted Answer

Flyinn provides guided, self-fly vacations for pilots and their partners in New Zealand. We specialise in mountain and back-country flying, and provide an experienced guide pilot who is also your personal host each day. Flyinn was founded at Geordie Hill, a working high-country sheep station, and Flyinn's base is nearby Wanaka. From here you do mainly day trips to a series of interesting destinations, with some nights away as per each itinerary.

Question 2

Where do we stay?

Accepted Answer

At Wanaka, a small town on a gorgeous lake in the central South Island. Your accommodation is a very comfortable, fully serviced apartment in a residential area, a short walk from the township and many excellent restaurants. A vehicle is provided for your transport to the airfield.

Question 3

What time of year do you operate?

Accepted Answer

From October to April each year.

Question 4

How many aircraft do you operate, and what type of aircraft?

Accepted Answer

Flyinn operates three Cessna 172s with a 180hp engine upgrade.

Question 5

Do I get to fly?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You will do all the flying.

Question 6

Does the guide go in the first aircraft?

Accepted Answer

No. There is one Flyinn guide for each aircraft. The guide takes the right-hand seat, the pilot guest the left-hand seat, and the non-pilot guest has all of the rear seat for viewing out each window.

Question 7

Is the Flyinn guide flying with us all the time?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your guide is an experienced mountain pilot and instructor. As well as being available for local aviation knowledge, your guide is also your personal host each day, so non-pilot guest comfort, interests and all logistics are taken care of at each destination.

Question 8

What is the best time of year to come?

Accepted Answer

New Zealand has a changeable maritime climate, so there is no single most-settled season. October to early December is spring, with snow-capped mountains contrasting fresh green pastures. December to February is summer, with long sunshine hours and warm evenings. March to April is autumn, with shortening days and lovely soft evening light.

Question 9

What if we can't fly because of bad weather?

Accepted Answer

Each itinerary includes at least one day off flying. Flyinn also has the ability to swap itinerary days around to suit the current weather, ensuring we complete our itineraries.

Question 10

With three people in a C-172, is there a luggage restriction?

Accepted Answer

The upgraded 180hp engine allows a 250lb increase in useful load. We can usually manage one piece of luggage up to the airline weight restriction of 23kg (50lb), plus an airline carry-on bag, per guest. Soft-sided bags are most useful. You unpack once at your Wanaka apartment and take only what you need each day.

Question 11

Can I join Flyinn with a non-ICAO pilot medical?

Accepted Answer

Yes. See our Licensing page for details, or contact us with your specific situation.

Question 12

What do I need to know about general and medical insurance?

Accepted Answer

We recommend comprehensive travel insurance including medical cover for your time in New Zealand. New Zealand's ACC scheme covers accident treatment for visitors, but travel insurance should cover everything else. Contact us for guidance specific to your itinerary.

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