A TIGER Moth biplane has taken to the skies again - courtesy of a North Yorkshire flying club.

The classic De Havilland DH82 aircraft is transporting enthusiasts at Sherburn Aero Club, near Selby, back in time to a golden era of flying in the 1930s.

The thrill of the open cockpit is proving a big attraction, with an average of 20 amateur pilots a week paying up to £260 for the Biggles-style Tiger Moth Experience.

The single-engine aircraft first flew on October 26, 1931, gaining immediate popularity with air forces in the UK and other countries throughout Europe and the Commonwealth.

Designed by Sir Geoffrey De Havilland, it went on to become the RAF's most important basic training aircraft of the Second World War.

It was also used on submarine patrols, as well as for air ambulance and prisoner evacuation duties.

Now enthusiasts are able to realise their dreams by donning a flying suit, leather jacket and helmet, to fly over the Selby area, with the help of one of the club's experienced pilots.

The experience stops short of wearing the old leather helmet and goggles - although they are available for photographs. Another optional extra is a video of the flight, captured on an in-flight camera.

Privately owned, the Tiger Moth is leased exclusively to Sherburn Aero Club, with lessons costing between £129 for 25 minutes and £260 for an hour. It is decked out in camouflage and proudly displays its original RAF number, T7909.

A club spokeswoman said: "It's proving very popular. Everybody loves to get dressed up in the old gear and have their photograph taken."

Updated: 08:25 Tuesday, August 13, 2002