One of the big features of the expansion is the implementation of flight. Each faction has two mount models for purchase in several colors, a slow and fast version (The speed difference is huge, check the table below). The basic model looks like a gryphon or wind rider, depending on faction. The fast one is armored and looks pretty nice in both cases, especially when flying. Both factions will have the option of getting a Netherdrake mount through a lengthy series of quests. There is also the possibility of getting an armored Netherdrake by being one of the five highest ranking arena teams at the end of a season.
Flying is not exactly free as it uses a higher level riding skill, which costs a lot to train. But it’s definitely worth the investment.
Flying works much the same way as swimming does, you’ll fly in the direction you are facing. If you hit the ground, your mount will start running like a regular mount would. As you can see above, flying and movement speed is the same for the basic mount but the fast one is a lot slower when running than when flying. If you run off a cliff or hit space, your mount will begin to fly. You can fly practically anywhere in Outland, although there are some limits. If you fly into the nothingness away from the continent, you will hit an invisible wall. The same happens when you fly really high, there is a ceiling. If you dismount mid-air you’ll plummet to the ground, so be careful with hotkeying it ;).
Note that you can only fly in Outland, and will have to resort to using an “old” mount in Azeroth. The reason for this is that Outland was built with flying mounts in mind, where Azeroth was not. Flying over the old world would reveal weirdness, gaps in the landscape, and probably large amounts of nothingness as well. Perhaps they’ll go back and make the old world flight-friendly at some point. I’m not holding my breath, but you never know.
Mount Skills, Prices and Abilities