Introduction to Flying in Tours: Helicopter & Hot-Air Balloon

February 13, 2025

Introduction to Flying in Tours: Helicopter & Hot-Air Balloon

 

Air Touraine Experience

Introduction to Flying in Tours: Take the Controls (Safely)

Do you dream of trying your hand at flying? With Air Touraine, enjoy an immersive experience departing from Tours: a helicopter flight with dual controls and a hot-air balloon ride (depending on the package).

Book on airtouraine.fr 

Contact: info@airtouraine.fr — (+33) 2 47 24 81 44

Why take a beginner's driving course?

An introductory session offers the perfect balance between thrills and learning: you’ll discover the basics, understand what it means to “fly,” and walk away with a real sense of what it’s like—no jargon, no stress, and with professional guidance.

A true immersion

  • Safety Briefing and Introduction to the Machine
  • Understanding Flight Controls and Flight Phases
  • Guidance from a pilot/instructor

A Gift That Makes a Lasting Impression

  • Perfect for a birthday, Christmas, or a bachelor/bachelorette party
  • A memorable experience to give as a gift (or to treat yourself to)
  • Easy booking through the Air Touraine ticket office

 

Introduction to Helicopter Flying in Tours: How Does It Work?

The helicopter introductory course generally takes the form of a dual-control flight. After a thorough briefing, you will gradually take control of certain flight operations under the instructor’s constant supervision.

Typical Procedure

  • Welcome and Overview of the Experience
  • Safety briefing (weather, instructions, equipment)
  • Getting to Know the Aircraft: Cockpit, Controls, Checklist
  • Introductory flight: sensations, visual cues, maintaining alignment, coordination
  • Debrief: Q&A, tips, and potential next steps toward training

Want to take it a step further? An introductory course can also serve as a gateway to a flight training program (depending on your goals and the instruction offered).

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Hot-Air Balloon Experience: A Look Inside the Balloon

Hot-air ballooning is a different philosophy: more contemplative, more like an “expedition.” The hot-air balloon introductory course emphasizes preparation, assessing conditions, and team coordination. Depending on the package, you’ll take part in the ground-level preparations and learn the key techniques of ballooning alongside the pilot.

Before takeoff

  • Weather Briefing and Flight Plan
  • Deployment and Inflation of the Envelope
  • Organization and Ground Safety

During the experiment

  • Understanding Navigation (Wind, Altitude, Course)
  • Observe the pilot's maneuvers
  • Debriefing and cleanup (an integral part of ballooning)

Goal: to provide you with a complete, authentic, and memorable experience—far beyond just a flight.

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Safety & Terms: Our Priority

When it comes to aerial activities, safety comes first. Introductory sessions are led by professionals and include a briefing before each session. Whether the activity takes place depends largely on the weather and operational conditions on the day. In case of unfavorable weather, a reschedule will be offered.

  • Routine Safety Briefing
  • Supervision by a pilot/instructor
  • Experience can be adapted to your level (beginners welcome)

Who is it for?

Our introductory flying lessons are designed for curious individuals, aviation enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and future student pilots. Each session is tailored (within the applicable regulations) to ensure that the experience is seamless, educational, and unforgettable.

 

FAQ – Air Touraine Introductory Flying Lessons

Am I really driving?

In a helicopter, the introductory session is conducted with dual controls: you’ll learn and practice piloting maneuvers under the instructor’s constant supervision. In a hot-air balloon, the experience is a complete immersion in operations and navigation (whether you get to take the controls depends on the package, conditions, and the pilot’s decision).

How long does the experience last?

The duration varies depending on the package (briefing + experience + debrief). Visit the Air Touraine ticket office to choose the option that’s right for you.

What if the weather isn't good?

Flights are subject to weather conditions. In the event of unfavorable weather, the experience will be rescheduled to ensure safety and quality.

How to make a reservation

Book online at airtouraine.fr or by contacting us directly: info@airtouraine.fr — (+33) 2 47 24 81 44.

Ready to experience your first real thrill of driving?

Whether you choosethe helicopter (with dual controls) orthe hot-air balloon ride, the Air Touraine team welcomes you to Tours for a premium, guided, and memorable experience.

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