The Wright brothers drew inspiration from examining ancient bird fossils, with their efficient wing mechanics, evolved systems of landing gear, and internal drink carts. Harness an authentic carrier crane with today's Groupon: for $149, you get a 30-minute flight tour (a $319 value) from AC Airways, taking off from the Langley Regional Airport.

AC Airways lifts landlubbers for scenery-staring sprees in a modified Cessna 210 aircraft controlled by experienced, Transport Canada–approved commercial pilots. Up to three binocular-clad air enthusiasts per flight take wing on a choice of two tours, both of which can be custom tailored in case the passengers desire to see where they live or get a unique view of their neighbourhood birds' bald spots. The North Shore Mountains Tour includes sights of rugged snow-capped mountains, lakes, waterfalls, rivers, and forests. Gaze in fluid wonder at the BC Hydro Spillway Gate and the twists and turns of the Fraser River, as well as bird's-eye vantages of Stave Lake and Alouette Park. The Fraser Valley Tour, on the other hand, brings beauty to beholders via colourful rolling hills, country farmland, and ocean inhabitants. A panorama of the Canada-U.S. border frames the North Shore Mountains from a unique perspective, granting adventurers one eye in each country simultaneously without having to declare them to cornea customs officers.

Passengers must be at least four years old and weigh less than 300 lb. Flights may be temporarily grounded, should Zeus choose to poke an overstuffed raincloud with a sharpened lightening bolt.