Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about flying with Mark
✈️ Before Your Flight
👕 What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, casual clothing appropriate for the season. Avoid loose clothing that might get caught on controls. Closed-toe shoes are recommended. Layers are ideal since temperature can vary, and we can adjust cabin heat/ventilation as needed.
📸 Can I bring a camera or phone?
Absolutely! Feel free to take photos and videos. The views are spectacular and you'll want to remember them. Just make sure devices are secured during takeoff and landing. Some tips:
- Bring a phone or camera with plenty of battery
- A neck strap or wrist strap is helpful for safety
- Clean your lens before the flight for clear shots
- Ask before opening windows for photography
⏰ When should I arrive?
Please arrive 15 minutes before our scheduled departure. This gives us time for a pre-flight briefing, weather review, and safety overview without rushing. If you're running late, just text or call.
🌤️ What if the weather is bad?
Safety is always our top priority. If weather conditions aren't suitable for safe flight, we'll reschedule at no charge. I monitor weather closely and will contact you 24 hours before if conditions look questionable. We can always find another day with better weather.
🍎 Can I eat before flying?
A light meal is fine, but avoid heavy or greasy foods within 2-3 hours of your flight. Flying on an empty stomach can actually make motion sickness worse. A light snack or small meal is ideal.
🛩️ During Your Flight
🎧 How do we communicate?
You'll wear a headset that allows us to talk to each other clearly over the engine noise. You'll also hear air traffic control communications. Feel free to ask questions anytime—I love sharing what's happening!
Can I touch the controls?
If you're interested and conditions are good, I'm happy to let you take the controls for a bit during straight-and-level flight. Many passengers love this experience! However, I maintain control during critical phases like takeoff, landing, and when near other air traffic.
What if I get nervous or airsick?
It's completely normal to feel nervous on your first flight. Let me know how you're feeling—we can:
- Focus on the horizon (helps with nausea)
- Get fresh air (we can adjust ventilation)
- Fly at a different altitude for smoother air
- Return to the airport early if needed
Airsickness bags are always on board, and there's no embarrassment—it happens!
How loud is it?
The engine is audible, but your headset provides excellent noise protection and allows clear communication. Some passengers actually find the engine sound soothing. You won't need to shout or strain to hear.
Is it bumpy?
Small aircraft can feel more responsive to air movement than commercial jets. On calm days, it's very smooth. Some light turbulence is normal and not dangerous—think of it like driving over a slightly bumpy road. I avoid flying in rough conditions and can adjust altitude to find smoother air.
🗺️ Where can we fly? How far can we go?
Our aircraft have a practical range of 200-300 nautical miles for comfortable day trips—that covers most of New England and beyond. For first-time flyers, I recommend staying local (Lakes Region, White Mountains, coast). Once you're comfortable, we can venture to the islands, Vermont, coastal Maine, or even into New York.
Popular destinations include Block Island, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, Bar Harbor, Montauk, Provincetown, and Lebanon. Most people don't realize just how many general aviation airports are scattered throughout New England—hundreds of them, not just the big airline hubs.
Want to see all the possibilities?
View Full Destinations Guide →🛡️ Safety & Aircraft
✅ Are small planes safe?
Yes. General aviation has an excellent safety record when pilots follow proper procedures and respect weather limitations. I maintain currency, follow strict checklists, keep aircraft well-maintained, and only fly in suitable conditions. Every flight begins with a thorough pre-flight inspection.
What about engine failure?
Engine failures are rare with modern maintenance. However, we're trained extensively for this scenario. Small planes can glide safely, and I always maintain awareness of suitable landing areas. Glide ratio allows us to cover several miles from altitude.
What type of aircraft do you fly?
I fly several aircraft from the East Coast Aero Club fleet at KASH (Nashua, NH):
- Piper Archer - Modern Aspen glass cockpit, comfortable 4-seater
- Piper Warrior - Reliable trainer, great visibility
- Cessna 172 Skyhawk - Most-produced aircraft, high-wing views
- Piper Arrow - Retractable gear, faster cruise speed
All aircraft are professionally maintained and inspected regularly per FAA requirements.
How high do we fly?
Typically between 2,000-5,000 feet above ground level for sightseeing. This altitude provides excellent views while staying well below commercial airliner cruising altitudes (30,000+ feet). We don't fly high enough to require oxygen.
Do I need a reservation?
Yes, please book in advance through the booking page. This ensures aircraft availability and allows me to plan the best route and timing for your flight.
📋 Logistics
How long is the flight?
Most sightseeing flights are 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on what you'd like to see and your comfort level. We can adjust the duration based on your preferences and weather conditions.
💰 What does it cost?
Per FAA regulations (14 CFR §61.113), as a private pilot I cannot legally charge for flights—that's what a commercial rating unlocks. (Spoiler: that's on my roadmap right after I finish my instrument rating. Ask me about my progress sometime; it's going… well, it's going.)
However, we can share costs. While I'll never expect it or ask for it, if you'd like to contribute toward aircraft expenses, the average hourly rate for the planes I rent runs between $180–$210/hour, which includes fuel.
⏱️ How "per hour" works: The clock starts when the engine starts and stops when it shuts down—not how long we have the aircraft reserved. For example, a round-trip flight to Block Island might be 1.5 hours of engine time, but we could have the plane reserved for half a day to explore the island.
If you'd like to chip in, I accept Venmo: @MJS1369
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Can I bring passengers?
Yes! Most aircraft can accommodate 2-3 passengers plus pilot, depending on weight and balance. When booking, let me know how many people will be flying so I can ensure we have the right aircraft.
Are children allowed?
Absolutely! Children often love flying. I'll adjust the briefing to be age-appropriate and keep flights shorter for younger passengers. Parents should assess their child's comfort with enclosed spaces and new experiences.
Can I bring luggage or bags?
Small personal items (purse, camera bag, small backpack) are fine. Larger items depend on aircraft and passenger count due to weight limitations. For sightseeing flights, you typically won't need luggage.
Where do we meet?
Boire Field (KASH)
25 Airport Road
Nashua, NH 03063
Airport Access Instructions:
If you are riding with Mark, do not worry about entering the airport. If you are meeting Mark, please park outside the gate by the East Coast Aero Club FBO Office (Gate 13). Contact Mark upon your arrival and he will meet you at the gate, providing access with his airport security badge.
The airport is easily accessible from Route 3 and has free parking.
Still Have Questions?
Feel free to reach out! I'm happy to address any concerns or questions you might have.
Ask During Booking →