TL;DR
- Flying mounts provide 200% speed boost in Heavensward zones compared to ground travel
- Company Chocobo remains the most accessible while Kirin requires extensive primal completion
- Seasonal mounts like Witch’s Broom offer unique aesthetics but limited availability
- Mount acquisition ranges from simple quest completion to collector’s edition bonuses
- Strategic mount selection can optimize travel time and enhance gameplay experience
The introduction of aerial transportation in Patch 3.0 Heavensward revolutionized exploration mechanics within Final Fantasy XIV. When initially showcased at the 2014 London Fan Festival, this feature generated tremendous excitement among the player community. Six months post-launch, numerous mounts from previous expansions gained flight capabilities, including fan favorites like Ahriman, Bomb Palanquin, and Kirin. Our comprehensive analysis examines player preferences and acquisition methods for these coveted flying companions.
Aerial mounts fundamentally transform navigation in Heavensward territories such as Ishgard and Coerthas Western Highlands. While airborne, these mounts operate at 200% velocity compared to standard ground travel, though they maintain equivalent speed when traversing terrestrial surfaces. Understanding flight mechanics is crucial for maximizing efficiency during endgame content and exploration. This guide provides detailed insights into the most sought-after flying mounts and strategic approaches to obtaining them efficiently.
Company Chocobo
Undoubtedly the most universally accessible mount, the Company Chocobo maintains its popularity despite being the initial mount acquired by most adventurers. Its enduring appeal stems from perfect balance of availability and functionality. Players can secure this reliable companion by investing 2000 Company Seals with vendors from The Immortal Flames, The Order of the Twin Adder, or The Maelstrom after pledging allegiance to a Grand Company. For optimal usage, consider the Class Guide to understand how mount selection complements different playstyles.
Kirin – The Mythical Steed
Originally captivating players in Patch 2.0, Kirin’s celestial design continues to mesmerize the community. Derived from Japanese “きりん” and Chinese “麒麟” (Qi Lin), this magnificent creature draws comparisons to Western unicorn mythology while maintaining distinct Eastern aesthetic. Its aerial manifestation creates a breathtaking visual spectacle during flight sequences.
Acquiring Kirin requires completing the “A Legend for a Legend” sidequest, which mandates obtaining six primal mounts: Aithon, Xanthos, Gullfaxi, Enbarr, Markab, and Boreas. This extensive undertaking typically demands 15-20 hours of dedicated gameplay across multiple trials.
Fat Chocobo
This beloved companion has cultivated an enormous fanbase through its endearing design and charming animations. The revelation of its flight capability delighted the community, establishing it as a preferred mount for both aesthetics and functionality. Acquisition is exclusively through A Realm Reborn Collector’s Edition bonuses, making it a prized possession for dedicated collectors.
Midgardsormr
Introduced in Patch 3.0, this draconic mount quickly gained popularity for its striking visual design and relative accessibility. Players can obtain Midgardsormr by progressing through the “Into the Aery” Main Scenario Quest, making it an excellent early Heavensward acquisition. Similar to understanding Weapons Unlock mechanics, mount acquisition often follows natural story progression.
Witch’s Broom (Mount)
This seasonal mount offers whimsical charm during limited-time events. Available through the “sweeping the Meadows” quest during All Saints’ Wake (2015), the broom provides unique roleplaying opportunities, particularly when paired with witch-themed attire. Its temporary availability makes timely participation in seasonal events essential for collection completion.

Beyond the featured mounts, numerous additional aerial options exist within Eorzea, with Square Enix consistently expanding the available selection through subsequent updates and expansions. Strategic mount management involves considering both practical functionality and personal aesthetic preferences. Common acquisition pitfalls include underestimating time commitments for primal mounts and missing seasonal event windows.
For optimal flight efficiency, prioritize mounts with smoother acceleration curves and clearer visibility during aerial navigation. Advanced players should maintain multiple specialized mounts for different content types, similar to how Complete Guide approaches help master complex game systems. Regular monitoring of official announcements ensures you never miss limited-time acquisition opportunities.
The development team continues introducing innovative mount mechanics and designs, making ongoing engagement with community resources essential. Whether you’re pursuing mount completion or optimizing travel efficiency, understanding the nuanced differences between available options significantly enhances your overall gameplay experience. Stay informed about upcoming additions through dedicated news channels and community discussions.
Action Checklist
- Join a Grand Company and accumulate 2000 Company Seals for Chocobo
- Complete all ARR primal trials to unlock Kirin quest chain
- Progress through Heavensward MSQ to obtain Midgardsormr
- Monitor seasonal events for limited-time mounts like Witch’s Broom
- Optimize mount selection based on content type and travel requirements
No reproduction without permission:OnLineGames Guides » Top 5 Popular Flying Mounts in Final Fantasy XIV Discover the top 5 flying mounts in FFXIV with acquisition guides, performance analysis, and expert tips
