Thurston Helicopters Ltd - Ashford

Thurston Helicopters Ltd: A Comprehensive Guide

Nestled at The Aerodrome in the picturesque village of Headcorn, Thurston Helicopters Ltd offers a unique and exhilarating experience for those seeking to explore the skies of Kent and beyond. With a strong reputation built on safety, professionalism, and exceptional customer service, this family-run business has been serving both aspiring pilots and sightseeing enthusiasts since 1987.

Main Services

• Trial Lessons - Experience the thrill of piloting a helicopter with a trial lesson, ideal for beginners or those considering a Private Pilot Licence (PPL).
• Sightseeing Flights - Enjoy breathtaking views of the Kent countryside, the White Cliffs of Dover, or even the London skyline on a shared or exclusive sightseeing flight.
• Heli Dining - Combine the excitement of a helicopter ride with a gourmet meal at a luxury restaurant, creating an unforgettable experience.
• Wedding Charters - Arrive in style at your special day with a helicopter charter, adding a touch of glamour and uniqueness to your wedding transport.
• PPL Training - Thurston Helicopters offers a comprehensive PPL training program, covering ground exams, controls, and flight training, with flexible pricing options.
• Commercial Licence & Type Rating - For those seeking a career in helicopter aviation, Thurston Helicopters provides training for commercial licences and type ratings.
• Proficiency Check - Maintain and enhance your piloting skills with a proficiency check, ensuring you meet the required standards for safe and competent flying.

Location and Access

Thurston Helicopters is located at The Aerodrome, Shenley Rd, Headcorn, Ashford TN27 9HX, United Kingdom. The aerodrome is easily accessible by road, with ample parking available, including a wheelchair-accessible car park. For those traveling by public transport, Headcorn railway station is approximately a 15-minute walk away, with regular services to and from London.

Featured Characteristics

• Fleet - Thurston Helicopters operates a modern fleet of Robinson R22 and R44 helicopters, known for their reliability, safety, and ease of handling.
• Pilots - The company employs highly experienced and qualified pilots who prioritize safety and customer satisfaction, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable experience for all.
• Training Facilities - Thurston Helicopters boasts state-of-the-art training facilities, including a dedicated briefing room, simulator, and well-equipped classrooms.
• Scenic Locations - With its base in the heart of the Kent countryside, Thurston Helicopters offers a variety of stunning sightseeing routes, taking in some of the UK's most iconic landmarks and landscapes.

Practical Information

Thurston Helicopters is open seven days a week, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with flights available throughout the day, subject to weather conditions and pilot availability. It is recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred flight time. The company accepts various payment methods, including cash, card, and cheque, as well as gift vouchers for that special occasion.

Positive Aspects from Customer Reviews

Thurston Helicopters has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from its customers, with an average rating of 4.8/5 on Google My Business, based on 24 reviews. Some of the most frequently praised aspects include:

• Professional and experienced pilots - Many customers commend the pilots for their expertise, patience, and ability to create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
• Scenic and exhilarating flights - The stunning views and thrilling nature of the flights have left a lasting impression on numerous customers.
• Excellent customer service - Thurston Helicopters is regularly praised for its friendly and efficient staff, who go the extra mile to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
• Well-maintained helicopters - Customers have noted the cleanliness and well-maintained condition of the helicopters, contributing to a safe and comfortable flight.

👍 Reviews of Thurston Helicopters Ltd

Andres G.

5/5

What a great experience! Phil was a super helpful pilot explaining every step of the way and how the helicopter operates. Beautiful location to fly as well with fields, lakes and you fly over Leeds castle.

Paul H.

5/5

My mum requested a flight to celebrate her 93rd birthday. I travelled with her. The experience for both of us was incredible. From the time I made the first enquiry to the flight itself, everything was brilliant.
The flight was incredibly smooth, and Gerald took us to places we wanted to see. He was very informative, as well as amusing!! I was able to take some amazing photos, which I plan to put into an heirloom book for Mum's Christmas present.
Thank you so much to Sarah and Gerald and the team at Thurston Helicopters Ltd.
I totally recommend anyone taking a flight.

Elina O.

5/5

I signed up for a trial helicopter flying lesson and I cannot recommend it enough! Instructor Phil was so professional, exactly the instructor you need if you want to learn and not be put off: calm, welcoming and reassuring. I felt comfortable the minute we took off and fear dissappeared. One should try it to understand it.
I cannot thank Phil enough, as this lesson has left me inspired, happy and willing to return to learn more. The perspective I gained during my flight time was rewarding, and it was enough to know that I want more of this skill. It quite frankly exceeded my expectations.
Ps. This flight time counts towards your PPL should you decided to go for it.

I'd also like to thank Gerald and Sarah for a warm welcome and instructions from booking the date to arriving at the Aerodrome. I am very happy I chose this exact place to do my first ever experience in a helicopter. Thank you a million and see you soon!

Mike A. M. B.

5/5

Friendly business at a quiet aerodrome. Excellent place to learn to fly. Pleasure flights are available too

Paul W.

5/5

Had a 40 minute flight today for my wife's Birthday. Warm friendly greetings. Gerald was fantastic from start to finish. Pointed out all points of interest and positioned for best photos. Highly recommended. Thank you so much.

Guy N.

5/5

I booked a trip for my partners birthday and we thoroughly enjoyed every minute. Gerald our pilot made a great call by bringing the day forward, we had fantastic weather. Sarah couldn't have done more either. Thank you both

Peter B.

5/5

Had a fantastic flight with
Captain Gerald along with my two grand children Alfie & Maddison. Very professional operation, good commentary throughout the 40 minute flight. Good value for money.

Terry S.

5/5

I booked a 1hr helicopter flight for me and my wife were 72 years old and don't like heights but we thought if we don't do it now we never will. So our pilot for the flight was a very nice gentleman called Gerald my wife as dizzy spells and I told Gerald before we booked and he said it was smooth trip so we went Gerald's kindness and patience he showed my wife as she is under 5ft tall and she took awhile to get into the helicopter .anyway we took of and we went to the white cliffs of Dover past the channel tunnel entrance past Dover docks and Leeds Castle and Gerald's comentry over the radio was exceptional and the whole experience was the best thing we've ever done so much so we have already agreed we will be going with Gerald again next year for our 50th wedding anniversary so I would like to say a great thank you to gerald for the great experience and his kindness and patience he showed during our exceptional so 10/10 and as I said we will definitely be seeing you next year for our 50th