Ever dreamed of learning to fly an aircraft? Thought it could never happen because it was simply too expensive?
Well, think again.. Where ever you may live in the UK, there is almost always a gliding club within reasonable distance. Believe me, it is the simplest and by far the cheapest way of learning to fly an aircraft. I am of course referring to a solid bodied aircraft and not a hang glider or paraglider.
In my opinion it is the most fun way of taking to the skies and it is entirely possible, with regular visits to the club of your choice, to gain solo status well within one year!! I have known student pilots to become solo pilots in six to eight months!
Most clubs will offer fantastic holiday courses, usually about five days in duration. These courses provide the tuition, flights, theory work all included in the price. A great way to get started and this option vastly cuts down on the time it takes to take that first flight on your own. By the end of the course most people will be doing most of the flying themselves, including the take off and landings! Hard to believe isnt it?
The amazing feeling of freedom, the breathtaking views of the english countryside and the sheer exhilaration you get from this sport is second to none. The skills needed to pilot a glider are somewhat different to a powered aircraft and all add to the great feeling of accomplishment each and every time.
All tuition is by British Gliding Association (BGA) qualified instructors and they are just as passionate about teaching you, as they are about flying themselves. They will never ask or expect you do do something if they do not feel you are ready, so if they say "Ok. now do that on your own" you can rest assured they believe you are capable of doing it,
Gliding clubs are not just about flying though. There is a great social side to them too. My club for instance have a purpose built and fully licensed bar.A marvelous way to socialize after a days flying. We also have an overnight accommodation block in the clubhouse. Ideal for those holiday courses or if you fancy a short flying break.
SO WHAT WILL IT COST?
Every club will have its own prices and will accept flying gift vouchers for a trial flight.
Basically, If you become a full flying member, All you pay for is the Launch fee.(dependant upon the type of launch, winch or aerotow) and a small price per minute whilst you are airbourne.
I would highly recommend gliding to anyone. Contrary to popular belief, this is in NO WAY an elitist sport.
Nor do you have to be a rich well to do accountant.Our membership consists of Bus drivers, plumbers, shop assistants and even unemployed, so theres nothing to stop you giving it a try
Check out the other pages for more information on Gliding in the UK
