Reach for the Sky: A Unique Flight Experience with Donatella Ricci
Dare to fly beyond limits
Since the dawn of time, humans have looked to the sky with wonder, longing to break free
from the earth and dance among the clouds. The flight of birds has stirred envy,
admiration, and an unshakable desire for freedom. Imagine the rush of wind, the endless
horizon, the exhilarating sense of liberation.
Flight is not just movement—it is power, control, and pure euphoria.
This module will take you beyond fear, beyond gravity, and into the very essence of
human ambition.
Are you ready to spread your wings?
Meet Donatella Ricci
Astrophysicist. Pilot. Record-breaker. Inspiration.
Donatella earned her degree in Astrophysics at Sapienza University of Rome and got her
PhD on black holes, earning a placement at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in California.
Today, she is a Program Manager at Leonardo, Italy’s premier aerospace and defense
company, working on one of its most advanced helicopter programs (NH90).
She is also a certified flight instructor and founder of the flight school “Papere Vagabonde.”
As President of Women in the Air (ADA), she champions women in aviation. In 2015, she
achieved a world altitude record in a gyrocopter (27,556 feet / 8,399 meters), a feat she
captured in her book “Flying Record: 8,399 Meters Above the Sky”.
“Remaining calm in discomfort and thinking in checklists—these are crucial skills, both at
the controls and in the office.” Donatella Ricci
What to expect: A day that defies gravity
Morning
Guests are welcomed in a scenic outdoor setting or a dedicated meeting room, where refreshments and lunch will be served. Donatella will lead an inspiring session, sharing her extraordinary journey—how she
overcame challenges, embraced risk, and achieved greatness in both aviation and life. Her
story will fuel your introspection and ignite your courage to rise above.
Afternoon
Then… you fly.
Each participant will enjoy a personal flight lesson (30 minutes) in an ultralight aircraft or
gyrocopter, soaring over the breathtaking Venetian lagoon. Guided by expert pilots,
you’ll learn the fundamentals of flight, take control in the air, and experience a moment of
pure freedom.
When not flying, guests will enjoy engaging flight-related activities on the ground, all
designed to deepen learning and maximize the experience.
Included in the module:
Personal 30-minute flight lesson
Pre-flight briefing and in-flight theory
Post-flight debriefing
Flight guidebook (English)
Full insurance coverage
Participants will wear HRV sensors throughout the day, capturing real-time emotional data
during both ground and flight activities—tracking your transformation in action.
A Journey you’ll never forget
This is more than a module. It’s a breakthrough experience that redefines what’s
possible—for you, your life, and your leadership.
