Take the controls
Once you're up and level, your pilot will let you fly the plane yourself — or just sit back and soak in the view. It's your adventure.
The Experience
Climb into the front cockpit, pull on a classic cloth flying helmet, and take to the skies just like aviators did more than eighty years ago. With two-way communication to your pilot the whole way, this is a ride — and a story — you'll be telling for years.
Once you're up and level, your pilot will let you fly the plane yourself — or just sit back and soak in the view. It's your adventure.
Trace the Gulf coastline and downtown St. Pete from an open cockpit, the way the world was meant to be seen — with nothing between you and the sky.
Stay in conversation with your FAA-certified pilot throughout the flight. Ask questions, learn the history, and call out the landmarks.
For the thrill-seekers: add loops, barrel rolls, and wingovers and see the beach upside down. Not your speed? A smooth scenic tour is just as unforgettable.
A genuine 1941 Army Stearman
The Aircraft
Our 1941 Army Stearman is the airplane that taught a generation of World War II pilots to fly. Rugged, nimble, and built for the open sky, this warbird has been lovingly maintained to the highest standards — and now it's ready to take you up.
Pricing
Flights are by appointment for one passenger plus the pilot. Prices below; reach out to pick a date and time.
30 minutes
$400
60 minutes
$600
Add to any flight
+$100
Tips are never required but always appreciated — cash or card.
Gallery
A few shots from the cockpit and the coast. (Placeholder photos from the current site — swap in your best high-resolution images here.)
Good to Know
Dress for the season — short sleeves in summer, a jacket in winter. Wear comfortable footwear (skip the high heels). We provide a cloth flying helmet and headphones. Sunglasses are highly recommended, and a little sunscreen is a good idea.
Please arrive no later than 15 minutes before your flight. We're at Albert Whitted Airport in downtown St. Petersburg — head to the Sheltair lobby on the ground floor where the kiosk is located. Our 1941 Stearman is usually parked on the front ramp.
The aircraft carries the pilot plus one passenger at a time. Weight capacity is generally 300 pounds or less, depending on temperature and air density. The seat is height-adjustable and the cockpit is roomy and comfortable.
None at all — we've flown passengers in their 90s and children of all ages. Kids just need to be able to sit up independently, and passengers under 18 need a parent's consent. A seat cushion can boost younger fliers up for a better view.
Absolutely. Spectators are welcome to watch takeoffs, landings, and parts of the flight. There's a climate-controlled lounge and a restaurant upstairs, plus great photo opportunities.
Your pilot is an FAA-certified commercial pilot with thousands of hours of experience. The aircraft meets stringent FAA maintenance requirements, including annual inspections and an inspection every 100 hours of flight time.
Tipping is never required but always appreciated — typical restaurant gratuity percentages are a good guide, in cash or by credit card.
Book Your Flight
Flights are by appointment. Call or email to check availability and reserve your spot in the front cockpit. We'll get back to you quickly.