Gliding

Gliding (or soaring) is a recreational activity and competitive sport where individuals fly un-powered aeroplanes known as gliders or sailplanes. Properly, the term gliding refers to descending flight of a heavier-than-air craft when gravity (its own weight) is its sole motive force; soaring is the correct term to use when the craft gains altitude or speed from movements of the atmosphere during the flight.

Learning to glide

Most clubs offer trial lessons to people interested in learning to glide and will accept bookings by phone. The links to national organisations below give the contact details for the nearest clubs. The pupil flies with an instructor in a two-seat glider fitted with dual controls. The instructor does the first launches and landings but otherwise the pupil uses the controls. People with the skill to drive a car can usually learn to fly a glider. Some clubs offer courses over several days, though, with a mixture of winch and aerotow launches, it often takes ab initios at least 50 training flights before they are allowed to fly solo. Further training continues after the first solo until the pupil is judged capable of taking a glider cross-country. Some studying is required on topics such as the regulations, use of the radio, weather and navigation. However, the cost of learning to fly a gider can be more then learning how to fly a power plane. This is due to the added costs of a tow plane and pilot on top of the other costs.

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