Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Aviation Partner in Melbourne
Established in 1968, Lilydale Airport has built a legacy of excellence in aviation services, operating from Lilydale Airport in Melbourne's Yarra Valley. Our expertise spans business and freight charter flights, comprehensive flight training programs, and unforgettable scenic and adventure flights. With a fleet of aircraft and a team of experienced pilots, we prioritise flexibility, safety, and customer satisfaction. We specialise in tailoring travel solutions for business, personal, and freight needs, offering 24/7 availability to meet urgent demands. Our flight school provides structured training from recreational to commercial pilot licenses, supported by certified instructors.Over decades, we've maintained a commitment to innovation, reliability, and community engagement, ensuring every client receives personalised service. Our operations reflect a deep understanding of aviation logistics, from air safaris to corporate travel, while adhering to rigorous safety standards. We pride ourselves on delivering efficient, stress-free travel experiences that maximise productivity and enjoyment. Our team's collective experience and dedication to continuous improvement position us as a trusted partner in aviation. By combining technical expertise with customer-centric values, we aim to exceed expectations in every flight we undertake.
Services
Business Charter Flights
Flight Training
Scenic Joy Flights
Air Safari Experiences
Freight Charter Solutions
Recreational Pilot License
Commercial Pilot License
Aerobatic Adventure Flights
Personal Charter Flights
Airport Services
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- We offer 24/7 charter services for urgent travel and freight needs.
- Our flight school provides structured training from recreational to commercial licenses.
- Decades of experience in regional and interstate aviation operations.
- We prioritise flexible, schedule-driven travel solutions for clients.
- Certified instructors deliver comprehensive flight training programs.
Services
Business Charter Flights
Business charter flights offer tailored travel solutions for corporate clients, enabling efficient point-to-point transportation without commercial airline constraints. Our services reduce travel time, eliminate overnight stays, and provide flexible scheduling to maximise productivity. With a range of aircraft options, we accommodate meetings, site inspections, and urgent business needs across regional and interstate destinations.
Flight Training
Our flight training programs cater to recreational and commercial pilot aspirations, offering structured lessons from basic handling to advanced ratings. Certified instructors guide students through RPL, PPL, CPL, and specialised training like instrument ratings. Facilities include modern aircraft and ground school sessions to develop practical and theoretical competencies required for professional aviation careers.
Scenic Joy Flights
Scenic joy flights showcase Melbourne's landmarks and Yarra Valley landscapes from the air, including city skylines, vineyards, and mountain ranges. These packages cater to tourists and locals seeking unique aerial perspectives, with options for photography tours, special occasion flights, and family-friendly adventures. Flights depart from Lilydale Airport with flexible booking options.
Freight Charter Solutions
Freight charter solutions deliver urgent cargo to remote or inaccessible locations with rapid turnaround times. Our services support time-sensitive deliveries for businesses, medical supplies, and emergency equipment, operating 24/7 to accommodate critical logistics needs. Aircraft capacity and scheduling flexibility ensure reliable transport for parcels, machinery, and oversized items.
Air Safari Experiences
Air safari experiences combine travel to remote Australian destinations with immersive cultural and natural exploration. Packages include curated itineraries to locations like King Island and the Outback, featuring guided tours, photography opportunities, and access to locations unreachable by road. These flights blend luxury travel with unique regional experiences for groups and individuals.
People
Jonathan Merridew
Operations Manager
With extensive aviation management experience, Jonathan oversees daily operations, ensuring seamless coordination of charter flights, training programs, and airport services while maintaining safety and efficiency standards.
Gary McGhee
GA Head of Operations
Gary leads operational strategy for general aviation activities, leveraging decades of flight experience to optimise aircraft utilisation, crew scheduling, and service delivery across charter and training divisions.
Matt Gault
GA Grade 1 Instructor
As a senior instructor, Matt delivers advanced flight training while also operating charter flights, combining technical expertise with practical industry knowledge to mentor students and serve clients.
Roger Merridew
Owner
Roger provides strategic leadership as business owner, drawing on generational aviation experience to maintain the company's reputation for excellence in flight operations and customer service since its founding.
Freya Rayson-Hill
Reception
Freya manages client communications and administrative operations, ensuring efficient booking processes and customer support for charter, training, and airport service inquiries.
Questions
What charter flight services do you offer?
We provide business, personal, and freight charter flights with flexible scheduling and tailored travel solutions.
Can I learn to fly at Yarra Valley Aviation?
Yes, our flight school offers training from recreational pilot licenses to commercial programs with certified instructors.
How do I book a scenic flight experience?
Contact us via phone or our website form to customise and schedule your scenic or adventure flight.
Do you operate 24/7 for urgent freight needs?
Yes, our freight charter services are available 24/7 to deliver time-sensitive cargo efficiently.
What areas do your charter flights cover?
We service regional Victoria, interstate destinations, and remote locations inaccessible by other transport.
