Baptiste Amans enjoys gliding experience at Räyskälä Aviation Center in Finland

22-year-old Baptiste Amans from Metz, France, sought a bustling gliding airfield in the Nordic region to maximize his flying experience. He found what he was looking for at the Räyskälä Aviation Center in Kanta-Häme, Loppi.

Amans shared, “Flying in Räyskälä is easy; there’s a large runway, and the skies are less congested than in France, allowing for more freedom in flying, despite the rules that need to be respected.” He has quickly grasped Finnish aviation terminology, easing his communication with fellow pilots.

At Räyskälä, Amans’ job is to tow gliders into the sky, with plenty of gliders available, reflecting the busy flying schedule. This summer, the airfield has hosted several competitions and training flights. Once a glider is airborne, the towing aircraft returns to the field to assist another.

Baptiste expressed satisfaction with his time in Finland, saying, “I have come here for flying, and I’ve had the chance to learn about the machines and meet other pilots. I wanted to bring something here, and I hope I’ve succeeded.”

He adjusted to Finland’s bright summer nights, remarking, “It hasn’t been easy to sleep with all the brightness, but I’m getting used to it.” The beauty of Finnish nature, with its picturesque lakes, also drew him to the country, offering solitude and space for outdoor activities.

When it comes to saunas, he appreciates the more relaxed atmosphere compared to France and tries to visit them whenever he can, although long working hours can make it challenging. Baptiste plans to fly in Räyskälä until late August before resuming university studies in languages back in France, hoping to return to flying abroad next summer.