Flying in Chicago [Archive]

ThePirateKing

2nd May 2006, 14:09

Hello all,

Can anybody recommend anywhere in the Chicago are where I can hire an aircraft + instructor for a hour or so ("sightseeing" - I really don't want to bother with the whole Visa rigmarole)?

I will be staying in downtown Chicago, and ideally need somewhere that I can get to (and back from!) by cab.

Thanks!

TPK:ok:

Gargleblaster

3rd May 2006, 13:35

I did this a couple of years ago at www.windycityflyers.com (http://www.windycityflyers.com). It's a bit out of town, you need to take the train north for 25 mins, and then a cab.

Last time I was in there I tried with a FBO at Midway, but was way too expensive, especially since they only did 3 hour blocks. Also, they say you can end up waiting 30 mins for takeoff, and that's expensive when you're paying by hobbs rather than tacho meter.

fernytickles

3rd May 2006, 18:27

Check out www.airnav.com and see what DuPage or Aurora or Joliet have to offer. Or just type "Chicago" in the airport section of airnav and that should come up with a list of all the airports in the Chicago area. If you have the time and the transport, Poplar Grove is an airpark on the outskirts of Chicago which is well worth a visit just for plane watching. They also have a museum there.

AfricanEagle

5th May 2006, 10:08

I flew a Beech 23 with instructor at http://www.palwaukee-flyers.com/
Also managed a scenic flight with a local pilot in a Piper Cub :D
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v708/AfricanEagle/110-1003_IMG.jpg

On the Spot

22nd May 2006, 19:55

I too took the train ride out to West Chicago - they are not very frequent at weekends ! _ and rented a tidy Archer with a very experienced instructor for a simple circuit of the city - and to see Meigs while it was open.
PM if you would like the instrucors contact details

troddenmasses

22nd May 2006, 20:46

I got back from Chicago about a week ago. I went up to Palwaukee (about 15 mins if you have a rented car) and hired the Debonair from Windy city flyers. Very nice aircraft, great instructors and a real pleasure flying in the States. Will definately be going back to them next time I'm in Chicago, and would reccomend them to a friend. Downtown Chicago is a really interesting flight - especially seeing where Meigs field used to be.

ThePirateKing

28th May 2006, 23:24

Well guys, thanks for the replies. I ended up booking at Palwaukee Flyers. Unfortunately, on the morning in question, the TAF was showing OVC005... :*

Maybe next time.

TPK:ok: