Frequently Asked Questions
Q – How many people can ride in the biplane?
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Only one rider is allowed onboard the airplane at a time. There are two seats. The pilot rides in the back seat cockpit, and the passenger rides in the front seat cockpit. If you have more than one rider, consider our Group Rate opportunities.
Q – What's the best way for more than one person to ride?
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The airplane is made to carry one passenger at a time, but we know many groups will have more than one person who wants to share the experience. That's why we offer special pricing for groups. As more people ride, the price per person gets cheaper. Checkout our Group Rates on the Rides and Rates page.
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Q – How long is the Barnstormer Classic flight?
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This flight is a comprehensive tour of the entire Branson area and surrounding Table Rock Lake. The flight typically lasts about 20 minutes, but might be a couple minutes longer depending on winds aloft.
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Q – Can I take pictures during my flight?
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Absolutely no loose articles such as keys, cell phones or cameras are allowed onboard as they can easily be dropped overboard or inside the aircraft which may foul the controls. Both scenarios are very dangerous. Onboard video footage of the flight from our securely mounted camera may be purchased for a small charge, and of course plenty of time for pictures with the airplane is available before and after takeoff.
Q – Is there a weight limit?
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Due to aircraft performance, passenger weight is limited to 275 pounds or less and all riders must be able to climb aboard without assistance.
Q – Is there an age limit?
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There is no age limit, but riders must be able to climb into the cockpit with some assistance from staff, and they must be able to follow instructions from our pilot for their safety while onboard.
Q – How do I pay for my flight?
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Flights are paid for by cash, credit card, or online securely through PayPal or Venmo prior to your flight's departure.
Q – Do you offer gift cards?
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We do not offer “gift cards” in the traditional sense; however, we will work with you to gift a flight to anyone you choose.
Q – Do you offer instruction in your biplane?
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Not at this time, but exceptions may be made on a limited case by case basis.
Q – Do you offer aerobatic flights in your biplane?
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While the Stearman is certainly rated for aerobatics, the FAA requires all passengers of aerobatic flights to wear a parachute. Due to this restriction, we do not currently offer aerobatic flights; however, most riders are more than content with legal and safe advanced maneuvering that “feels like” aerobatics to most non-pilots. Our pilot will show you a good time, however adventurous you may or may not be.
Q – Is it scary to ride in a biplane?
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Riding in a biplane is an experience like non other. Imagine an airborne motorcycle, but sitting inside a secure cockpit with a 4-point seatbelt. Your pilot can fly the airplane as gentle as a butterfly, or as aggressive as a hawk – your choice. Our goal is to give you the experience you want. Some just want to experience the special view from an open cockpit. We can do that.
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Q – Is it safe to ride in a biplane?
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Yes. We operate the airplane according to all Federal Aviation Regulations pertaining to both airworthiness and air tour operators. The airplane is routinely inspected, and maintained regularly to the highest possible standard. It was fully restored over a period of 27 years and is in like new condition, possibly in better shape than it was originally in 1941. Additionally, all four wings are new, not restored.
Q – If I’m prone to motion sickness, can I still ride?
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It depends. Most riders find the experience relaxing and the breeze of fresh air helps combat traditional motion sickness like one may experience riding in a car. Movement in the airplane is very gentle on days with light wind. However, everyone is different. If you don’t feel well, we can always land the airplane quickly and safely. We want you to have fun.
Q – What if there’s bad weather when we are scheduled to fly?
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No flights are charged until after they return safely; so we will simply work with you to reschedule. We are limited to fly on days when the winds are less than 15 mph, the clouds are above 3,000 feet, no rain in the flight area, and the temperature is at least 55 degrees. Needless to say, those conditions are sometimes challenging in the Ozarks. That’s part of flying. “Somedays even the sparrows have to walk”, and “time to spare – travel by air” – good words to remember to avoid frustration. Keep an open mind. We’ll do all we can to safely fly with you.