Over the Channel: A Training Flight and a Milestone

25 June 2024 | PPL trainingsflight | VFR

Some flights are more than just a training day — they bring together lessons, experiences, and personal milestones into one unforgettable memory. That was the case on 25 June: an intensive, educational, and celebratory flight from Eindhoven to England with a student nearing the completion of his PPL course.

Written by Olivier van Dijk, Flight Instructor & Safety Pilot
ppl trainingsvlucht

From Eindhoven to Calais: Classic Paper Navigation

We departed early in the morning from Eindhoven in a Bristell BR23. The first leg took us to Calais Airport (LFAC) to clear customs. This time, the French customs officers were already waiting for us upon arrival. After a quick check and paying the landing fees, we were ready to head across the Channel.

The weather was ideal — clear blue skies, no turbulence, and not a single cloud. The student handled navigation for this leg using only a classic VFR paper chart — a fundamental skill that remains essential, even in today’s increasingly digital cockpit environment. On the apron, we spotted a unique homebuilt aircraft; France continues to surprise with its array of innovative private aviation designs.

Tip:

  • Make sure you inform Calais airport about your customs request on time. Before they used a PDF that you needed to fill out, now they have a handy digital form on their website: https://calais.aeroport.fr/en/customs/

Over the Channel to Headcorn Aerodrome — and a Personal Milestone

The second leg took us from Calais to Headcorn Aerodrome (EGKH), a lively general aviation field in the English countryside. The crossing over the Channel went smoothly. We flew at FL75 — high enough for safety, low enough for stunning views.

Upon arrival, we were pleasantly surprised to meet two fellow EACm flying club members who had landed earlier. The field was bustling with activity; we chatted with local pilots and enjoyed a bite at the charming airport restaurant.

While cruising, I did a quick calculation and realized with a smile that I had just passed the 1,000 flight hour milestone — a symbolic achievement that added even more meaning to this day.

The student navigated this second leg using VOR beacons — a great way to practice radio navigation in UK airspace.

Tip:

  • Make sure you report the flight to the British Border Police on time. This must be 2 hours before arrival. You can easily do this using the GAR website.
  • A lot of British airports can facilitate customs. Have a look at the complete list of airports on the GAR website. So choose a fun destination right away instead of making a stop at an airport with not much to do or see!
  • During the crossing of the channel in a SEP, you are out of gliding distance for quite some time, so don't forget about the life vests! If you can, take a life raft to increase your chances of survival in that worst case scenario. Also, mention your life vest and life raft info on the flight plan!

From Headcorn to Ostend via GPS

After a hearty lunch and a short break, we set course for Ostend (EBOS). This third leg brought us back over the Channel, now using the built-in Garmin G3X GPS system in the Bristell BR23. This modern avionics suite offers a clear, intuitive, and highly accurate navigation experience.

We followed the coastlines of southern England and Belgium, and eventually intercepted the ILS for a straight-in approach into Ostend — an excellent training opportunity, even for a PPL student without an instrument rating.

After a smooth landing, we were warmly welcomed at the FBO, passed through customs again, and made a short stop before the final leg.

Tip:

  • Oostend airport does not allow aircraft that fly on AVGAS 100LL as of April 30, 2025 (NOTAM EBBRYNYN A1458/25)!!! 
  • Make sure you inform the airport about your customs request on time. All General Aviation flights go through the NSAC handling company. On the website of the airport you can find all information about customs.

Back to Eindhoven with SkyDemon

For the last leg back to Eindhoven, the student chose to navigate using SkyDemon — a popular app among private pilots. Since he plans to use this app after earning his license, this was the perfect opportunity to test it in a safe, instructional setting.

This final flight went just as smoothly as the others: clear skies, calm air, and a flawless landing in Eindhoven — the perfect end to a beautiful, intensive day.

Curious to read more? Read one of my other blogs!
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