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First swing of the bat

After a 10-minute briefing, you'll take the controls for a 15-minute flight accompanied by your instructor, during which you'll discover the finesse of piloting and the magic of flight.

Flights on specific weekends departing from the Neuvy-le-Roi heliport (30 minutes north of Tours)

Flight time15 minutes
Total service30 minutes
Briefing10 minutes
SeasonAll year round

Air Touraine Academy

Introductory Helicopter Flight in Tours

Take the controls of a real turbine-powered helicopter during a 15-minute introductory flight, guided by a professional instructor. A unique first flying experience, open to everyone—no prior experience required.

Your First Flight at the Controls of a Helicopter

Have you always dreamed of flying a helicopter? With Air Touraine Academy, you’ll take the controls of a turbine-powered Bell 206 and experience the unique thrill of dual-control flying.

Accompanied by an experienced instructor, you’ll gradually learn the basics of flight, how to fly the aircraft, and how to coordinate the controls. It’s an impressive, accessible, and unforgettable experience.

You actually fly the helicopter:

The instructor stays by your side and has dual controls to guide you throughout the flight.

Key Information

Flight duration

15 minutes of dual-control flying.

Total duration

About 30 minutes, including the briefing and the flight.

Departure Location

Belleville Heliport in Neuvy-le-Roi, about 30 minutes north of Tours.

Conditions

Ages 16 and up; parental consent required for minors.

How is your introductory flight training going?

1

Welcome and Briefing

Before takeoff, your instructor will familiarize you with the helicopter, the flight instruments, the principles of flight, and the safety procedures.

2

Order Processing

Once in the air, you’ll gradually take control of the helicopter and experience the thrill of flying for the first time.

3

Debriefing

After landing, you’ll discuss with your instructor how you felt and how you can continue to improve.

Your helicopter: the Bell 206

For this introductory flight, you'll fly aboard a Bell 206 Jet Ranger, an iconic light turbine helicopter.

Known for its stability, precision, and versatility, the Bell 206 is particularly well-suited for a first flying experience. Its visibility and controls allow pilots to learn the basics of flying in a gradual and safe environment.

Who is this experience for?

  • For people who want to learn how to fly a helicopter.
  • To aviation enthusiasts and those who love the thrill of flying.
  • For anyone looking for an original gift idea.
  • To prospective flight students who want to explore the world of flight training.
  • For those looking to enjoy a unique experience near Tours.

This activity is also an excellent first step before pursuing training to become a private helicopter pilot.

Terms and Conditions and Practical Information

  • Flights are available year-round, subject to availability.
  • Ticket valid for 18 months from the date of purchase.
  • Minimum age: 16 years old.
  • Parental consent is required for minors.
  • Accompanying persons are not permitted on board under this plan.
  • Flight subject to weather conditions.
  • In case of inclement weather, a new date may be scheduled.
  • Estimated price: €399 (including tax).

And after your introductory session?

Did this first experience make you want to take it further? Air Touraine Academy will help you build your aviation project.

  • Additional driving courses.
  • On-demand driving lessons.
  • Training for the Private Helicopter Pilot License.
  • Personalized guidance from a professional instructor.

Discover Air Touraine Academy

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I actually flying the helicopter?

Yes. You'll take the controls during the flight, flying with dual controls, with a professional instructor at your side.

Do you need to have flown a helicopter before?

No. This introductory course is open to beginners and requires no prior experience.

What happens in case of bad weather?

The flight may be rescheduled to ensure your safety. A new date will then be scheduled based on availability.

Where does the introductory session take place?

The flight departs from the Belleville heliport in Neuvy-le-Roi, about 30 minutes north of Tours.

Ready to take the helm?

Treat yourself to an exceptional flight experience and discover what it’s like to fly a turbine-powered helicopter with Air Touraine Academy.

Contact us
Your helicopter - Air Touraine

Air Touraine operates five Bell 206 helicopters - JetRanger (4-passenger) and LongRanger (6-passenger) - renowned worldwide for their robustness and versatility. This fleet homogeneity enables us to guarantee the same flight signature: stability, safety and operational flexibility, whether for a first flight or a customized transfer.

Fly further, faster, with complete peace of mind

  • Cruising speed: ~ 200-230 km/h - ideal for a quick trip to the Châteaux de la Loire, a business meeting or an airport. 
  • Range: up to 600 km - enough to cover almost the whole of Western France non-stop. 
  • Proven Rolls Royce engine : a reliable turbine whose simplicity reduces maintenance costs and increases aircraft availability.

Panoramic cabin and premium comfort
Large picture windows offer 180° views of the landscape; VIP Club seating ensures legroom and easy conversation thanks to the on-board intercom system. Luggage compartments accommodate your personal belongings or photo equipment without compromising on comfort.

Safety first
Our maintenance cell rigorously applies manufacturer and EASA guidelines: systematic pre-flight inspections, regular overhaul programs and preventive replacement of key parts. Add to this the high stability of the Bell 206, and you have one of the highest levels of safety in light aviation.

Versatility to meet your every need
From romantic flights to urgent transfers and aerial photography, the Bell 206 can be reconfigured in a matter of minutes:

  • removal of doors for photo/video shoots,
  • installation of floats or gyrostabilized cameras,
  • VIP layout for business flights.

When you climb aboard your Bell 206, you're choosing more than just a means of transport: you're experiencing a privileged moment where technical performance, safety and the pleasure of flight are one and the same.


Ready for take-off? Reserve your seat and let yourself be carried away!

Air Touraine Academy

With 40 years' experience behind it, Air Touraine has its own flight school, Air Touraine Academy.


If you would like to extend the experience beyond the initiation, or fly on your own, there are several options available:

  • Piloting course 1h (2 sessions of 30 minutes), prerequisite: to have followed the initiation to piloting course.
  • On-demand piloting : price per flight hour (please contact us)
  • Private pilot's license :
    • 100 hours of e-learning theoretical training
    • 10 hours training with an instructor at the school
    • 45 hours of flight training on a turbine-powered helicopter (Bell 206) with a professional instructor


For further information, please contact us

Practical information Introduction to piloting

The flight departs from Neuvy le Roi heliport, 25 minutes north of Tours
-Accompanying person not allowed on board
-Children aged 16 and over (initiation, with parental authorisation)

Terms and Conditions of Sale
  • Terms of payment :

Full payment is required at the time of order (via credit card, cheque or vacation vouchers, cash, bank transfer).
For your convenience, we offer the possibility of paying in 2 instalments free of charge by credit card via our secure online payment platform.

  • Extend the validity of your ticket:

If you wish to extend the validity of your ticket, opt for our extension option and getan extra year to enjoy your experience.

  • Cancellation option :

You can take out a cancellation option when you order or book a date, allowing you to postpone your flight or be reimbursed in the event of a definitive cancellation on your part.

(voir terms and conditions of sale)

Reservation

Booking your flight: two options

  1. Ticket valid for 18 months: receive your gift box by post (postage 9€90) or collect it from Air Touraine Store, or opt for the ticket sent by e-mail. Plan your date at your convenience using our online schedule. As soon as your order is confirmed, we'll e-mail you a gift voucher, so you can choose the date that suits you best later.

  2. Choose your flight date (ticket valid for 18 months) directly when you order online, by consulting the proposed schedule. If you don't find the date you're looking for, don't hesitate to contact us by e-mail info@airtouraine.fr

New flight date [IF POSTPONED] :

If your flight is postponed due to weather conditions, you have the option of rescheduling your appointment using our "I have my tickets, I'm booking" section.. Simply enter the voucher code you received by e-mail with your initial booking to select a new date via our online calendar. If necessary, we can send you this code again. Simply send a request to the following address: info@airtouraine.fr

Our CSR commitments: Green Flag project

Our CSR commitments: GREEN FLAG project

Winds of change meet commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Our sector cannot turn its back on its responsibility for the aviation of tomorrow, and that's why, as a pioneer in green aviation, we're committed to pushing back the boundaries of the airline industry by integrating CSR into every aspect of our business, whether in our helicopters, hot-air balloons or airships.

 

Our approach to CSR is based on three fundamental pillars:


The Environmental Component :

We are aware of the environmental impact of our flight operations. That's why we invest in cutting-edge technologies to reduce our carbon emissions, minimize our ecological footprint and preserve the fragile ecosystems we fly over. From reducing fuel consumption to adopting sustainable biofuels and protecting the biodiversity of our heliport, every flight is a step towards a cleaner, more environmentally-friendly aviation future.


 

The Societal Component :

We firmly believe that our success as an airline goes hand in hand with the well-being of the communities we serve. That's why we're committed to supporting local initiatives, promoting diversity and inclusion among our staff, and ensuring some of the highest standards of safety and well-being in the industry. From creating local jobs to promoting sustainable tourism, we work to be a driver of prosperity and social development wherever we operate.


 

The Economic Component :

Economic sustainability is at the heart of our business model. We are constantly looking for ways to increase operational efficiency, reduce costs and invest in fair and ethical business practices. By working with local partners and fostering inclusive economic growth, we help strengthen regional economies and promote a sustainable financial future for all.

 

Our approvals

 

Our Aeronautical Approvals

At Air Touraine, we're proud to hold the aeronautical industry's most prestigious certifications, testifying to our expertise, safety and professionalism. These certifications, obtained through strict controls and rigorous audits, attest to our compliance with the industry's most demanding standards.

Here is a list of our approvals:

Helicopter air carrier: FR.AOC.0079

Hot-air balloon carrier: FR-O063

Operator specialized in high-risk aerial work: FR.DEC.0110

Flying school (helicopter / hot-air balloon) : FR.DTO.0284

Airworthiness Manager: FR.CAMO.0116


Each code represents a specific recognition of our commitment to safety, the quality of our services and our ability to meet the requirements of the aeronautical sector. Thanks to these approvals, Air Touraine can guarantee its customers certified expertise and an optimum level of service.

By choosing Air Touraine, you're choosing trust and excellence, backed by high-level certifications that place safety and quality at the heart of our concerns. 


 

Our Tourism Approvals

 

Travel Agency Certifications: A Guarantee of Trust and Excellence

At Air Touraine, our commitment to quality, safety and transparency is reflected in the certifications we have earned in the travel industry. These labels attest to our seriousness and expertise, while guaranteeing our customers services that comply with the strictest standards.

Certifications that make all the difference

Our certifications are the fruit of rigorous work and a constant commitment to excellence. They illustrate our ability to offer tailor-made trips, with customer satisfaction and safety at the heart of our concerns. Thanks to these labels, we can assure you of transparent management, impeccable service quality and total compliance with the regulations in force in the tourism industry.

 

We are registered with the Registre des Operateurs de Voyage et de Séjours: IM03700003, enabling us to offer you holidays.

Financial Guarantee: ATRADIUS, 159 rue Anatole France-CS50118-92596 LEVALLOIS PERRET

Professional liability insurance: ALLIANZ IARD, 1 Cours Michelet-92076 PARIS LA DEFENSE.

Contract no. 086846 956

 

When you choose Air Touraine, you're opting for a certified travel agency that puts quality, safety and innovation at the heart of its services. Let us convince you of our proven expertise, and enjoy exceptional travel experiences with complete peace of mind.