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Aerotow Gliding Flight

  £99
XGLIA
20 mins
  • You're towed into the air by a light aircraft then released at 2,000ft
  • Use the thermal currents to circle upwards
  • Expert instruction from your qualified pilot
  • Take the controls of the glider (at your pilot's discretion)

About

Gliding is perhaps the most elegant way that humans can get airborne. It's a breathtaking way to fly, soaring on the same rising currents of air that the birds use, with no roaring engine to spoil the peace. You'll start with a briefing session so that you'll know what to expect, before climbing aboard your dual-controlled glider with your expert instructor. Then the glider is towed into the air by a light aircraft (okay, this bit is noisy, but you have to get airborne somehow). Once you're at a height of around 2,000ft the rope is released, the aircraft peels away and you're free to soar and circle lazily in the thermal currents. You might be joined in the thermal by a bird - you can never do it as well as they can, but it's great fun trying! You'll enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside below you and the sky around you. And - at the pilot's discretion - you might be able to take the controls and trying controlling the glider yourself. Unforgettable.

Locations

  • Brackley, Northamptonshire
  • Brecon, Powys
  • Crowland, Lincolnshire
  • Marlow, Buckinghamshire
  • Umberleigh, Devon

Reviews

* * * * *
So Amazing To Glide The Skies
June T
10 Jul 2010
* * * * *
One Heck Of An Experience
Andrew S
10 Jul 2010
* * * * *
An Experience Never To Forget
Ian M
10 Jul 2010
* * * * *
I Even Talked My Wife Into Doing It!
Barry D
18 Jun 2010
* * * * *
What A Experience!
Christopher M
24 May 2010
* * * * *
Up Up And Away
Michael S
23 May 2010
* * * * *
Fly Like A Bird!
Hywel B
22 May 2010
* * * * *
Unforgettable
Michael S
11 Apr 2010
* * * * *
An Experience That Will Live Me Forever
Robert O
08 Aug 2009
* * * * *
A Way Of Flying To Be Experienced By Everyone
Ian F
12 Jul 2009
* * * * *
What A Memorable Experience!
Dave T
28 Jun 2009
* * * * *
A Great Day Out And Very Exciting
Andrew M
20 Jun 2009
* * * * *
The Height Of Enjoyment!
Amanda W
09 May 2009
* * * * *
An Outstanding, Never To Be Forgotten Experience
Stephen G
05 Apr 2009
* * * * *
Spectacular Way To Celebrate My 40Th
Jim H
17 Jan 2009
* * * * *
Top Flight Experience
Alec M
14 Sep 2008
* * * * *
Incredibly Enjoyable!
Laura B
14 Sep 2008
* * * * *
Best Birthday Gift Ever
Michael C
14 Sep 2008
* * * * *
A Fantastic Experience
Cheryl R
13 Sep 2008
* * * * *
Everything I Expected!
Stuart H
23 Aug 2008
* * * * *
Felt Like Superman For A Day
Campbell W
16 Aug 2008
* * * * *
Felt Welcome From Take-off To Landing
Michael C
16 Aug 2008
* * * * *
Exciting To Take The Controls
Tony K
20 Jul 2008
* * * * *
Excellent, A Very Enjoyable Day
Helen H
19 Jul 2008
* * * * *
Superb Day Out
Allen E
28 Jun 2008
* * * * *
Seriously Considering Taking A Course To Go Solo
Steve B
28 Jun 2008

Key Info

Availability: Most venues operate all year round. Weekends are often very busy, please book at least six weeks in advance. Flights are usually less frequent during winter.
Participant Guidelines: Minimum age varies from 12 to 16 depending on venue. Maximum height varies from 6'1'' to 6'4''. Maximum weight is usually 16 stone. You can't fly if you suffer from epilepsy, fainting or certain other physical or mental disabilities - check when booking.
Weather: Gliding is weather dependent. It is crucial that you call the venue for a weather check before setting out. If your flight is cancelled because of the weather, it will be re-booked for an alternative date or time.
Duration: The length of glider flights depends entirely on the prevailing thermals (currents of warmer air that provide the lift). As a guide your aerotow flight should last for between 12 and 20 minutes.
Numbers On Day: Your briefing might be shared, your flight will be held on a one-to-one basis with the instructor.
Spectators: Spectators are welcome, but must follow safety directions whilst on site. Please check with us at point of booking as some venues operate a minimum age policy. A camera or a pair of binoculars will come in handy.
Dress Code: Wear flat-soled shoes and bring a jumper with you in case it gets cold at higher altitudes. Bring gloves in winter and sunblock and a hat in summer. Sunglasses are recommended all year round.
Other Info: Many gliding venues are run as non-profit-making clubs and operate on a first come first served basis - you might be asked to sign onto a flight list and wait your turn to glide.
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