Are your pilots professional?

Yes! Both of our pilots fly professionally for their main jobs and have almost 25,000 hours in the air between them. They fly the Stearman and Waco in their spare time to share the joy of this kind of flying with you. See our "ABOUT Legacy Biplane" page for more details. Top

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What should I wear for the flight, is it going to be cold?

It is always a good idea to have a jacket handy, but it really depends on the season and the weather for the day.  During the summer months a short sleeve shirt is very comfortable. Most other times it is best to wear a light jacket to be comfortable.  Some may also prefer to wear some light gloves, especially when have your hands on the controls and not in your pockets for the flight!  Comfortable shoes such as sneakers make climbing in and out much easier. Sorry, NO high heels or flip-flops!  Wearing sunglasses is helpful to protect your eyes from the wind as well as the sun. A helmet with earphones to wear during the flight will be provided so no additional headgear or hearing protection is required. Top

 

When should I arrive for my flight?

We need you at the airport no later than 15 minutes prior to your flight time.  Many times flights are booked back to back and the schedule can be tight, so thank you for being on time. Failure to show up for your flight will result in loss of value and refunds will not be possible. Top

 

Where do we go when we get to the airport?

In Concord, follow the signs for "Private Flights" on Aviation Blvd, go through the roundabout (big yellow spot) and park in the lot with the 3 flag poles. DO NOT turn left at the roundabout, even if your GPS tells you to! Go in the glass doors, you can’t miss it.  Your pilot will meet you there. If flying from Salisbury, proceed to 3650 Airport Loop Rd and go in the glass doors of the office with the blue roof.   Top

 

How many people can go up at a time?

The Stearman seats the pilot in the back seat plus the customer/"cadet" in the front seat. The Waco seats two passengers in the front cockpit, subject to weight limitations as listed further down the FAQ (400lb total). Top

 

If the plane’s wings are made of wood and fabric, just how sturdy and safe is it?

One of the most frequent comments made about our airplanes is about how solid they feel. The airplanes were designed to take a serious beating by fledgling WWII cadets with no flying experience, but we treat them like angels. They are very strong, with aluminum struts, steel tubing and flying-wires and braces… you’ll be amazed at just how stout and robust the airplanes are! Top

 

How do I schedule my flight?

We do not offer online booking as we try to provide a more personal customer service experience. Please call or email us to discuss openings.   Top

 

Where can we fly? Can we go see my house from the air?

Maybe, the Stearman does not conduct "sightseeing" flights like the Waco. It is a "Discovery Flight", in other words, an introductory flying lesson. Our goal is to inspire future aviators!  The Waco may be able to conduct your flight over your house if time, airspace, and weather conditions permit. Top

 

What are aerobatics and what can I expect?

Aerobatics are maneuvers that you might see an aircraft do at an airshow. They have also been described as tricks or stunts. One thing is for sure, they are fun! But we will not just take you up and start flipping you upside down.  The maneuvers are tailored to each person’s input and desires. Your pilot will talk you through it.  This is NOT an extreme experience, this is designed to teach you about the basic maneuvers included in WWII Primary Flight Training.  Aerobatics are only available in the Stearman. Here are a few points worth noting:

 

• It is very smooth and graceful, not jerky like a roller coaster. We also only pull some gentle positive G's, which means you wont ever feel like you're being pushed out of the cockpit. We conduct all maneuvers above the FAA required minimum altitude, as our safety is always our top priority. We will both also wear a parachute as required by FAA regulations.

 

• The ample fresh air of the open cockpit keeps people from getting sick 99% of the time and most of the passengers who experience the loop or roll say it was better and more comfortable than they expected.

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• While it is a great deal of fun, it is a somewhat physical experience, so we do not do 30-60 minutes of continuous aerobatics. We do a maneuver or two at a time and stop to talk about how you're feeling. We will never force you to do anything you're not ready for, we promise! We let you set the pace! Top

 

Should I eat before my flight?

Yes, please eat before you fly if you want to. We’ve found that a light meal before flying makes you much more comfortable and helps prevent motion sickness. Top

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If the cockpit is open, with no canopy, can I fall out?

NO. We’ve never had a passenger fall out and we never will. You will be strapped securely into the comfortable front seat with a full set of lap belts and shoulder harnesses. Additionally, we don’t do any negative-G maneuvers that push you out of the airplane. During aerobatics in the Stearman, you may momentarily feel a bit light in the seat, but you aren’t going anywhere, we promise! Top

 

Can I bring a camera or a video recorder on the flight?

Yes, as long as you can keep control of the device so it does not blow out!  If it departs the aircraft in flight, it is usually not recoverable. Your pilot has fast reflexes, but not that fast unfortunately. In the Stearman, it's best to use a head-strap if you are planning to take video while so you can keep your hands free to fly the airplane! Additionally, depending on how busy the flight schedule is, there may be time to hook up external camera systems such as GoPro cameras. Coordinate this with your pilot when booking your flight for more information. Top

 

Is there a weight or a size limit for passengers?

Yes. The precise weight depends on the conditions for the day, but generally we are limited to 250 pounds in the Stearman and 400 pounds total in the Waco.  For safety, however, we must reserve the right to refuse service to anyone for any reason. Top

 

Is there an age limit?  Is it handicapped accessible?

We have taken Cadets in their 90’s that have greatly enjoyed their flight lesson as well as children as young as 8.  For children it really depends on the maturity of the child and how well they follow instructions.  The Stearman's seat is adjustable, the Waco's seat is not, Additional seat cushions are available to make sure that children can sit high enough in the seat to see out and enjoy the flight.  There are two way communications between you and the pilot, which usually helps as we’ve have found children have lots of questions! While we try to accommodate everyone, we take disabled customers on a case-by-case basis.  Top

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Can friends or relatives come watch the flight?

Absolutely, the more the merrier!  Anyone attending will be able to participate in our pre-flight briefing, come out to see the airplane, and view the aircraft taking off and landing. Unfortunately, the flight itself will not be visible as airspace restrictions require us to leave the area. There is a climate controlled lounge area at the airport office with restroom facilities and snacks.  There will be photo opportunities before and after the flight with the aircraft and/or pilot.  We want everyone to enjoy the experience and have a great time! Top

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Should I tip the pilot?

While tips are not required, they are certainly always appreciated. Many of our customers are so thrilled by their flight, they just can’t resist a small contribution. All tips go toward the high cost of fuel and the upkeep of our trusty old biplanes. Top

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Do you offer group discounts or gift certificates?

Yes. Call us at 704-277-2596 or email info@legacybiplane.com for more information. Top

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Cancellation, refund, no-show policy.

Refunds to the original payment method are only offered within 30 days of purchase. Purchases are honored for one year from date of purchase. Cancellations/Rescheduling must be made more than 48 hours in advance. Cancellation inside 48hrs or failure to show up for your flight will result in loss of value. Top

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What methods of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, credit cards, Venmo, and PayPal. Electronic transactions incur a 3.5% processing fee. Sorry, no personal checks. If paying cash, a $100 deposit by another method is required at the time of booking to confirm your appointment. Top

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​Can I pay online for my flight in advance?

Yes, you can pay via various electronic methods by clicking the appropriate red button on the Flight Options page, which you can find in the menu bar at the top of any page.  You will still need to contact us to schedule your flight. All electronic payments incur a 3.5% processing fee.

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Can my flight be canceled like the airlines do?

There are a number of reasons we may be forced to reschedule your flight (e.g. rain or gusty winds). Simply put, we will not take you up on a day where you will not be thrilled with your flight or if it is unsafe to fly. Your pilot has the authority to reschedule, change, or shorten a flight due to weather or other factors beyond our control. Importantly, if we are unable to fly at our scheduled time, you will not lose any value! We will make every effort to notify you promptly and will gladly coordinate with you to reschedule your flight for the next best date. Top

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How safe is this really?

While there is an element of risk in flying, quite simply, your biggest risk will be driving to the airport. Safety ALWAYS takes priority over having fun. We operate with your safety as our #1 top priority! Period. We’ve given thousands of flights over the years and your pilots are highly qualified FAA certified pilots with thousands of hours of flying and instruction experience. We go above and beyond the FAA requirements to identify and mitigate risks in our operation while following the rules and regulations to the letter. We have a perfect safety record and the aircraft is maintained to meet the highest FAA maintenance standards! Top