If you’ve ever wanted to spread your wings and indulge your inner adventurer, Australia offers a plethora of exciting experiences to suit anyone with a love of flying. Whether you’re a thrill seeker or a romantic, these aerial adventures are guaranteed to be a blast.
Take a trip to Antarctica
Described as ‘the world’s most unique day tour’, Antarctica Flights has been piloting summer trips over the snowy continent for over 20 years. Be transported to the icy expanse of the world’s largest polar desert, home to endless swathes of tundra, sweeping mountain ranges and adorable penguins. The experience offers you a unique bird’s-eye view like no other, allowing you to marvel at the unexplored wilderness as few people have done before.
As soon as you set foot on the Qantas 747 jetting off from Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide or Melbourne, you’ll be treated to luxurious in-flight service, including premium meals and snacks, a full bar and a top-notch entertainment system. Sip on a glass of champagne and watch an Antarctic-themed flick as you embark on the 12-hour journey of a lifetime, including four hours flying over Antarctica itself. You’ll also enjoy talks from on-board Antarctic expeditioners and live crosses to research stations.
Fly in a fighter jet
Looking for the perfect gift to pamper an adrenaline junkie? The ‘Millionaire for a Day’ package by Jet Fighter will make them feel like a million dollars.
Start your day soaring over the picturesque Hunter Valley in the L-29 Albatros, an ex-military fighter jet with an impressive maximum speed of 900km/h. The 25-minute flight is not for the faint of heart, reaching 400 km/h and climbing 10,000 feet in the air. It’s packed full of stomach-dropping aerial acrobatics, including aileron and barrel rolls, hesitation rolls loops, inverted flight and derry rolls and wing-overs.
Afterwards, you’ll get the chance to catch your breath with a helicopter ride in the R44 Robinson, which will whisk you away in style to lunch at a top restaurant.
Blast off with a jetpack or jetboard
Who hasn’t dreamed of owning a James Bond-esque jetpack? While not quite like 007’s famous contraption, water-powered jetpacks are just as entertaining to use.
Launched in 2012 as the world’s first water-powered device, it consists of a backpack with a secure harness and hand controls, fuelled by a 20-metre hose. You’ll be propelled above water for 10-15 minutes in an unforgettable experience that’s what futuristic dreams are made of. It’s the perfect activity for the whole family, with clients ranging from 10-89 years old.
Or for fans of Back to the Future, the jetboard is the closest thing to a real-life hoverboard you can find. Test your balance on the water-powered board and perform tricks and manoeuvres to everyone’s envy.
Surprise yourself with a mystery flight
Take the planning out of travel with a mystery flight to a surprise destination. Relish the unknown as you fly from a major city to one of 21 possible destinations across Australia, from the Whitsunday Coast to Melbourne.
Choose between day trips to three-night stays, including the lavish three-night luxury package which includes accommodation at a five-star hotel, breakfast and airport transfers. Three days before departure, you’ll be sent your flight time and number and a folder containing everything you need to know about your destination. (Try to resist taking a peek!) All that’s left to do is to pack your bags and enjoy the ride.
By Jennifer Luu