A Biplane Ride: The Gift They’ll Never Forget

Give them more than a present—give them an experience they’ll remember forever

Our beautiful biplane, Gracie, flying over Sunseeker Resort and Charlotte Harbor at Sunset

Buy a gift card for any occasion

At Suncoast Biplanes, we believe the best gifts are experiences that stir the soul. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, retirement, or just because, a biplane ride turns an ordinary occasion into something extraordinary.

Why Experiences Make the Best Gifts

What could be more romantic than a date with Gracie?

When you give someone a biplane ride, you’re giving them a story—a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that can’t be duplicated or forgotten.

Many studies consistently show that experiences (travel, concerts, adventures like biplane rides) tend to generate more enduring happiness than material goods (electronics, tools, furniture). 1,2

Gifting an experience such as a biplane ride aboard Gracie can be more emotionally impactful than gifting another “thing”, because:

  • Memories of experiences provide ongoing enjoyment and are less subject to “adaptation” (the novelty wearing off) than possessions.

  • Experiential purchases often involve social connection and expression of identity,

So instead of another gadget or nondescript gift card, offer your loved one an unforgettable mix of excitement, nostalgia, and beauty. The open-air cockpit, the sound of the propeller, and the panoramic view of Southwest Florida’s coastline combine to create something magical—a feeling money can’t buy, yet surprisingly accessible.

  1. Nicolao, L., Irwin, J. R., & Goodman, J. K. (2009). Happiness for Sale: Do Experiential Purchases Make Consumers Happier Than Material Purchases? Journal of Consumer Research, 36(2), 188-198.

  2. Kumar, A. (2022). The unmatchable brightness of doing: Experiential consumption facilitates greater satisfaction than spending on material possessions. Current Opinion in Psychology, 46, 101343.

Meet “Gracie,” Our Vintage WACO Biplane

Gracie’s stunning good looks turn heads wherever she goes

Our star, Gracie, is an authentic WACO YMF-5C—a handcrafted classic that pays tribute to the golden age of aviation. With her double wings, radial engine, and polished red-and-white finish, she’s both a head-turner on the ramp and a dream to fly in.

The rush of wind, the gentle roll of the horizon, and the sense of freedom are unlike anything modern air travel offers. Every flight is tailored for comfort, safety, and pure joy—from smooth scenic cruises over Charlotte Harbor to gentle aerobatic maneuvers for the more adventurous.

Passengers often describe the experience as “like stepping into a 1930s movie.”

Gracie’s beautiful wooden propeller is a work of art in itself

The Experience: From Runway to Sky

Your lucky recipient’s adventure begins at Punta Gorda Airport, or Venice Municipal Airport, where our friendly crew greets them with a warm welcome and safety briefing. Cameras are encouraged—this is the kind of experience you’ll want to remember forever.

Then, as Gracie’s engine roars to life and the propeller spins, anticipation builds. Moments later, wheels leave the runway, and the world below unfolds like a living postcard: shimmering blue water, bridges spanning the Peace River, boats gliding across the harbor, and the barrier islands in the distance.

Gracie taking off runway 09 at PGD

Depending on the chosen route, the flight might circle over Fishermen’s Village, cruise along gulf beaches from Manasota Key to Boca Grande, or trace the coastline around Charlotte Harbor. From the air, the views are breathtaking—and from the heart, they’re unforgettable.

A unique perspective on the Route 41 bridges and Sunseeker Resort

A Suncoast Biplanes Gift Card is ideal for:

  • Birthdays – Give a gift that’s both unexpected and exhilarating.

  • Anniversaries – Share a romantic sunset flight for two.

  • Retirement Celebrations – The perfect way to mark a life of accomplishment.

  • Holidays – A surprise that rises above the usual presents.

  • Corporate Gifts or Incentives – Reward a standout employee or client with something extraordinary.

After their flight, passengers are always smiling from ear-to-ear!

Every ride includes a commemorative photo beside Gracie.

Safety and Comfort: Our Top Priorities

We often hear one question before every flight: “Is it safe?” The answer is absolutely yes.

Gracie is meticulously maintained to FAA standards, and our pilots are highly experienced, certified professionals with thousands of flight hours.

Every safety check is performed with the same care we’d want for our own family members.

From takeoff to landing, your loved one will feel secure, comfortable, and cared for every step of the way.

Make It Personal

Want to make the surprise even more special? Consider these ideas:

  • Include a handwritten note tucked inside the gift card that says, “Your wings are waiting.”

  • Arrange for photos or video to capture their reactions as Gracie lifts into the sky.

  • Pair the ride with dinner at one of Punta Gorda’s favorite spots—like Carmelo’s, Winesett House, or Ortigia Cucina

The Burrata Mangiaficio at Ortigia is wonderful - one of our favorite dishes

Little touches turn a wonderful gift into an unforgettable moment.

How to Give a Suncoast Biplanes Gift

Ordering is simple. Visit SuncoastBiplanes.com and select “Gift Cards” from the menu. Choose your amount, write a personal message, and we’ll take care of the rest—instantly delivered by email or mailed in a beautifully printed format. Easier yet, just click the button below!

Give the Gift of Adventure

No expiration date. No scheduling stress. Just pure anticipation for the day they take to the skies.

Because Some Gifts Can’t Be Wrapped

Twelfth birthdays don’t get better than this!

In a world full of fleeting trends and disposable trinkets, experiences like a biplane ride stand apart. They connect us—to history, to nature, to freedom, and to one another.

So this year, give them more than a gift.

Give them a story they’ll tell for the rest of their life.

Give them the gift of flight—with Gracie and Suncoast Biplanes.

Buy Your Gift Card Now!
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Come Meet Gracie at the Florida International Air Show

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Is Flying in Gracie Safe?