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Trial Flights / Basic Gliding Experiences

Take to the Skies on your first flight

A Basic Gliding Experience is a great way to try something new and experience the delights of gliding, or maybe you would just like to take in the view!  You’ll be able to fly if you are under about 6 ft 2 inches and 16 stone (or about 100 kilograms). Click here for full details of restrictions 


You’ll take a winch launch and be shown how the glider is controlled after which, height permitting, you can have a go yourself!

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Pre-flight:

Your gliding experience begins at the launch point, where our friendly club members will deal with the paperwork and introduce you to your instructor, who will give you a full briefing on the flight ahead.  

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The flight:

Depending on the weather and the launch method, you will usually winch launch to around 1200 feet – it is important to note that the weather determines the height of the launch.  After release from the winch cable, your instructor will demonstrate the flight controls and, if weather conditions allow, explain how the glider can stay airborne and even climb using thermal up-currents.


If conditions permit, your instructor will also give you the opportunity to fly the glider yourself – it’s not as difficult as you think!  However, if you just want to sit back, relax and enjoy the views, that’s fine too.

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The experience:

The local views are stunning, so if you want to take photos you should let your instructor know before the flight and ensure that your phone or camera is securely strapped to your wrist.   You and your party are welcome to use the clubhouse (covid restrictions permitting) and simple refreshments are usually available (again, covid restrictions may restrict this).  


All of our instructors are trained to standards set by the British Gliding Association.  The BGA’s instructor training programme is rigorous and you can be assured that your instructor will look after you before, during and after your flight.


If, having flown, you want take it further then we are more than happy to discuss how this works and how you go about joining the Club.

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Gliding experiences make great gifts for friends and family - Gift Vouchers are available in our online shop

All flying is subject to availability of aircraft, launch equipment, instructors and the weather. We offer no guarantee to be able to fly on any particular day even if previously booked, but we will always do our best to get you into the air.

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