Misconceptions
Affordability
Gliding is an affordable way to fly compared to powered aviation.
It’s accessible due to collective effort and shared costs within the club, and there are programs available to get youth involved.
You can’t go far and are reliant on the wind
Contrary to what you might think, gliders don’t plummet if the wind stops.
Their aerodynamic design and use of rising air rather than horizontal wind allows them to travel hundreds or thousands of kilometers in a single flight.
It’s just for adrenaline junkies
While gliding offers a breathtaking sense of freedom, glider pilots are focused on safety, prioritizing skill and understanding, not reckless risk-taking.
It’s about enjoying the experience responsibly.
How gliders fly
Controlled like any other airplane
Gliders have the same basic control surfaces as any other airplane, which are manipulated using the same stick and rudder pedals, and have a similar set of basic instruments.
The only difference is that after initial release from the tow plane, instead of an onboard engine providing energy, glider pilots harness the power of atmospheric conditions.
Gain energy by flying in rising air masses
Gliders harness energy from nature by soaring in rising air masses such as thermals.
By skillfully circling within these thermal columns, pilots can climb thousands of feet, then gracefully glide to the next thermal, allowing them to travel longer distances.
It’s like a game of chess
Like expert chess players planning their moves, glider pilots must read the weather’s subtle clues to decide where to fly to maximize distance and speed.
How a gliding club works
It’s a team sport
Every role is crucial to making the flight operations work, from daily inspects (DI), preparing gliders to launch, to retrieving and recording flights information.
With everyone pitching in, we maintain a welcoming atmosphere and keep costs affordable for all enthusiasts to enjoy.
Focus on learning & safety
The foundation of the club is instruction, welcoming beginners and nurturing the growth of seasoned pilots.
Safety isn’t just a priority but the very heartbeat of the club, permeating every aspect of our operations.
Shared resources
Members enjoy access to shared resources like gliders through a rental system, fostering community and affordability.
Alternatively, members can keep their own gliders in our hanger.