Question 1

Where is Coastal Sky Taxi based?

Accepted Answer

Hummel Field in Topping, VA (W75).  My hangar address is 140 Campbell Drive, Topping, VA 23169.  By car, it's about one hour east of Richmond, 2 hours north of Norfolk or 3 hours south of the DC area.

Question 2

Where can I fly?

Accepted Answer

Coastal Sky Taxi is FAA licensed to fly within the contiguous U.S.  Typically we fly to your nearest airport and take you to your destination, whatever is easiest for you!

Question 3

How much does a Charter Flight cost?:

Accepted Answer

Generally $550/hour for the whole plane (can be split amongst 3 passengers). However, each case is unique, so please send me an email to get an accurate quote.

Question 4

How early do I need to show up for my flight?

Accepted Answer

5 minutes early is plenty!

Question 5

How many bags can I take, is there a weight limit?"

Accepted Answer

There are no restrictions on quantity of bags, but there is a weight limit. Generally this is not an issue, but is still checked on a case by case basis.  
Here is an example:  
3 passengers (each weighing 200 pounds) can take 145 pounds of baggage (total) and we can fly for over 2 hours, or roughly 300 nautical miles.

Question 6

Can my pet fly with me?

Accepted Answer

Yes!  All well behaved pets are welcome.  Each pet's needs are unique, so be sure to let us know if you intend to bring an animal or two so we can plan appropriately.

Question 7

Is there heat or A/C in the plane?  What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

There is no A/C, however, once we are moving the outside air is used to cool the interior.  The outside air becomes significantly cooler as we climb to altitude.  
​
There is heat for the entire cabin.  Wear whatever is comfortable, we can adjust the cabin climate to your liking.

Question 8

Is it noisy in the cabin?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you won't notice.  Each passenger is given Bose noise cancelling headsets.  This allows us to talk together and makes it very quiet inside the cabin.

Question 9

Is there a lot of turbulence?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no.  You may notice a little bumpiness soon after takeoff or upon approach because of thermals radiating from the ground, but not always.  At cruising altitudes the air is very smooth.

Question 10

Do I need to wear an Oxygen Mask?

Accepted Answer

No, we won't cruise above 10,000 feet.

Question 11

What is normal cruising altitude?

Accepted Answer

Generally between 4,500-9,500 feet, however, on shorter flights we may cruise as low as 1,500 feet.

Question 12

How long does it take to get to....?

Accepted Answer

General rule of thumb is a quarter of the driving
time.  If it takes you 3 hours to drive to the Outer
Banks, we can get you there in 45 minutes.  
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The plane cruises at 150 knots (~175 mph) and does not contend with stop lights, winding roads, speed limits or traffic jams.  
​

Question 13

How is the aircraft maintained?

Accepted Answer

This aircraft is maintained to scrupulous specifications set forth by and overseen by the FAA.  The entire plane is inspected every 100 hours by an FAA inspection authority.  Propellor, engine, governor and other crucial parts are given life limits based on years or hours of operating time.

Question 14

Can I bring my camera?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely!!

Question 15

Are cell phones allowed to be on during flight?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you won't have a signal.  Above 1000' or so, cell towers are usually ineffective.

Question 16

Can I bring food or drinks?  Alcohol?

Accepted Answer

Feel free to bring food or drinks that have a sealable lid.  Alcohol can be arranged with advance warning, please inquire.

Question 17

Can we fly at night?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Coastal Sky Taxi is certified to fly at night under VFR conditions (VFR-Visual Flight Rules)

Question 18

What weather conditions could cancel a flight?

Accepted Answer

Limited visibility (fog, low cloud levels, or moderate to heavy rain), thunderstorms, and icing (freezing rain, sleet) are all weather conditions that could cause a delay or cancellation.
​
Aviation weather forecasts are used to stay ahead of potential weather conflicts before they become a problem. This allows passengers to implement "plan B" or reschedule for another time.  Safety is a priority on every flight.
​

Question 19

Is there a refund policy?

Accepted Answer

Please allow two days of warning if you need to cancel. Cancellations inside of 48 hours are dealt with on a case by case basis, however, full loss of deposit (50% on flights over $300) is possible.  If the flight must be cancelled due to weather, a full refund will be given.

FAQ's