FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you pick up at our hotel? Can we be picked up at a location other than our hotel in Waikiki?
Generally, free transportation is included within the Ala Moana-Waikiki areas. We normally don’t pick up outside the areas mentioned, but please ask beforehand. For details on transportation, please refer to our “Contact” page.
How long before we come back to our hotel?
It depends on the course you choose and the traffic situation, but for a 60-minute flight, you can expect to be back at your hotel in about 3 hours.
If I went scuba diving in the morning, can I fly on the same day in the afternoon?
Diving or snorkeling in shallow water would not be a problem, but if you do a deep dive, give yourself at least 24 hours before taking a flight. If you are unsure, give us a call.
Does the flight time count as official air time?
At Washin Air, qualified instructors are there with you all the way, so your time flying is officially counted. This mileage can be used in case you plan to pursue a pilot’s license in the future.
Will I be taught how to fly beforehand?
Before a flight, we use a panel to get you acquainted with the instruments you will be using. Visit our “Our Aircraft” page to get a head start on the various meters you will see.
If there are 2 people who want to pilot the plane, do I need to wait at the office?
Everyone boards the same aircraft, and one person sits in the pilot’s seat while the other sits in the rear passenger seat. We fly to an airstrip located at another location, change positions, and then head back to Honolulu International Airport.
Do we have to pay for the extra 30 minutes seated in the passenger seat?
No. You only pay for the time you’re piloting the aircraft.
If there are 2 people piloting, and 1 person sits in the passenger seat, would that person be charged for the passenger fee for 2?
No, you will only pay the passenger fee for 1 person.
Where do we switch pilots?
We land at an airfield or Honolulu Airport and then switch positions. We never switch while in flight.
Can we fly our own course?
There are rules and designated flight paths, but we try our best to fulfill customer requests. There are simple descriptions of each course on the “Flight Experience” and “Scenic Flight” pages.
I have a license. Can I fly solo?
No, a pilot from Washin Air must accompany you.
Are flights cancelled due to rain or strong winds?
Depending on the severity of the weather, we may delay take-off until visibility improves, but a flight rarely gets canceled due to high winds.
In situations as stated above, what is the cancellation policy?
In the event a flight is cancelled due to poor visibility, there is no cancellation charge. At your request, we can reschedule for another date.
Can we charter a flight to the neighbor islands?
No, we don’t do charter flights. We can, however, fly to a neighbor island with a Washin Air pilot aboard, and immediately return to Honolulu.
How high will we fly?
About 2,000 feet (600 meters).
What is the temperature during the flight?
It is about 72 degrees F. It’s very comfortable.
Can a person with disabilities fly?
If you have control of your upper body, it’s possible to fly. The passenger seat is open to anyone. However, boarding and disembarking from the plane requires some effort, so it may be necessary to get assistance.
Can a person with a hearing disability fly?
We can use a message board and use hand gestures, so there should be no problem.
I get motion sickness. Will I be OK?
We strongly recommend taking motion sickness pills prior to flight. Eat lightly before the flight. If you take your own video, you may get dizzy if you look through the finder for long periods of time. We have air-sickness bags, so if you feel queasy let the pilot know.
Is there an age limit in piloting a plane?
Not really. Grade-school children are welcome and even younger children can pilot an aircraft as long as they understand the words left right up and down. Seniors over the age of 80 have flown on numerous occasions with us, so age is not an issue.
Can small children fly without being able to see ahead or reach the pedals?
We can adjust the height of the seat with cushions, and there is no effect on flight even if their feet cannot reach the floor.
How do I pay?
Cash and traveler’s checks are accepted. All major credit cards except for American Express are accepted, but a processing fee will apply.
Do children younger then 2 years of age need to pay?
No, only children over 2 will be charged.
Do I need to bring my passport?
No, passports are not needed.
How long in advance do I need to make reservations?
We get pretty full during the high season, so an early reservation is recommended.
What is your cancellation policy?
There is no cancellation fee applied if you notify us 48 hours or more in advance, but a 100% fee applies to cancellations within 48 hours.
Is there an insurance policy in case of an accident?
There is a $1 million per incident, $100,000 per person policy, but Washin Air has remained incident-free since its opening in October, 1997.
