Fly the iconic T-6 Harvard warbird with expert instructors. Enjoy a thrilling flight in this vintage military trainer from WWII. Available at several UK airfields.
Why live this T-6 Harvard flight
The T-6 Harvard is more than an aircraft. It is a flying piece of history. Used to train thousands of WWII fighter pilots, it offers a rare chance to experience the sights, sounds and sensations of vintage military aviation.
During your flight, you will feel the raw power of the aircraft’s 600-horsepower radial engine. The cockpit is fully equipped with original instruments, and the instructor will guide you through the basic controls. You will not just sit back – you will be invited to fly the plane yourself.
Whether you are an aviation enthusiast, a history lover or simply looking for a unique experience, this flight is for you. You will enjoy panoramic views, responsive handling and the unforgettable sound of the Harvard’s engine roaring across the sky.
This is an ideal gift for anyone passionate about flying or history. Some flights include video options, pilot briefings and the opportunity to fly formation with another aircraft. The experience is immersive, emotional and truly memorable.
Where, when and how much
- Locations:
• North Weald Airfield (Essex)
• Headcorn Aerodrome (Kent)
• Compton Abbas Airfield (Dorset)
• Duxford Airfield (Cambridgeshire)
• Kortrijk-Wevelgem Airport (Belgium) - Availability:
• Flights from March to October (UK)
• Year-round (Belgium, weather-dependent) - Prices:
• From £455 for a 20-minute flight
• From £599 for a 30-minute flight
• From €695 for a 30-minute aerobatic flight in Belgium
• Advanced packages up to £1,699 for formation or dual aircraft flights
About the plane
The North American T-6 Harvard is a single-engine advanced trainer aircraft developed in the 1930s. It played a central role in preparing Allied pilots for combat. Over 15,000 units were built and used by air forces worldwide, including the Royal Air Force and the United States Army Air Forces.
Its 600-horsepower Pratt & Whitney R-1340 radial engine gives it strong performance and a distinctive sound. The Harvard was designed to be challenging to fly, helping trainees build real fighter pilot skills before stepping into frontline aircraft such as the Spitfire or Mustang.
It is capable of advanced maneuvers such as loops, rolls and stall turns. Though it never saw frontline combat in its original role, it was later used in light attack and counter-insurgency operations. The aircraft’s solid structure and good handling made it ideal for continued service through the 1950s and beyond.
Today, restored T-6 Harvards offer civilian pilots and enthusiasts the chance to fly a genuine WWII trainer. The aircraft retains its original layout, offering an authentic experience with modern safety upgrades.
What to expect
Your day begins with a full safety briefing and introduction to the aircraft. The team explains the basics of the flight, the controls, and what to expect during the experience. You will be fitted with a flight suit and headset before heading to the aircraft.
Once in the cockpit, the instructor will go through the pre-flight checks. After engine start-up, taxiing and line-up, the aircraft will take off and climb to altitude. At this point, you will be invited to take the controls under supervision. You may try basic turns and straight flight. If you feel comfortable, the instructor may demonstrate or let you attempt light aerobatics such as loops or barrel rolls.
The experience lasts 20 to 30 minutes depending on your chosen package. You will enjoy a wide view of the countryside, feel the aircraft’s responsiveness and hear the roar of the radial engine. Some operators also offer optional extras such as HD in-flight video, a commemorative certificate, or even flying in formation with another Harvard.
After landing, you will debrief with the pilot and have time to take photos with the aircraft. The entire experience is typically around 1.5 to 2 hours including briefing and post-flight.
Operators
- Aero Legends (North Weald, Headcorn, Compton Abbas)
- Into The Blue (Duxford, various UK locations)
- Classic Wings (Duxford)
- T6 Harvard Ltd / The Warbird Experience (UK)
- FAST Aero (Kortrijk, Belgium)
- Virgin Experience Days (various UK sites)
A great flight experience
Flying the T-6 Harvard is a rare and unforgettable opportunity. You feel the heritage of military aviation in every detail. It is hands-on, exciting, and deeply immersive. For anyone who dreams of becoming a fighter pilot or reliving aviation history, this experience delivers pure emotion and lasting memories.
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