Luchon Trip Report

Posted Mon, November 03, 2008

On 14th October 2008, four Helicentre crews set off from Coventry bound for Bagneres-de-Luchon in the Pyrenees.

The three R22s and one R44, consisting of three instructors, three students and two hour-builders coasted out at Lydd and touched down at Le Touquet, France at about 10am local.

A few fuel stops and several chateaux's later, the group ended up in Limoges, making a divert due to bad weather and decided to stay the night, with a plan to complete the outbound trip the next morning.

In Limoges a nice man (and high-time fixed wing pilot) named Pierre, showed us around the town and kindly allowed us to stay the night at his Challet, so after a lovely evening meal, everyone settled down for a good night's sleep.



Next morning, after some chocolate croissants and coffee it was time to go, and the team set off southbound for Luchon airfield. Further south the sun was shining and the flying was absolutely awesome. ATC were really helpful (and did speak English!!) and as the Pyrenees emerged in the distance the scenery became all the more glorious.

Once in Luchon (after a total of nearly 10 hours flying!) everyone chilled out for a couple of days, exploring the town, visiting the thrermal spa and checking out the local bars and restaurants.

The views were truly stunning so a bit of mountain flying in the R44 up at 6,000' was an absolute must, with a trip over the Altiport featured in the James Bond film "Tomorrow Never Dies". Once back on the ground it was time once again to go and chill out.



The trip back home was equally beautiful, with stops at Limoges, Rouen and Le Touquet for fuel, followed by the London Heli Lanes to top it all off.

If you missed out on the trip this time, don't worry, there will be more exciting outings planned for next year where you will be able to experience flying cross channel.

Be sure to visit the Luchon 2008 Photo Gallery to check out some awesome photos of the trip!

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