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Introduction To Gliding

Ref BOOFO

Duration 4 hrs

Location Marlow, Buckinghamshire

Reviews

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£270

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About
Key Info
Reviews
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. This experience is a perfect introduction to gliding, giving you the chance to really get to grips with it. You'll start with a briefing session 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 the right height the rope is released, the aircraft peels away and you're free to soar and circle lazily in the thermal currents. You'll enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside below you and the sky around you. You'll be able to take the controls and pilot the glider yourself. The course includes three aerotow flights, on-ground tuition and one month membership. It might just be the start of a love affair with gliding!
- Get to grips with gliding during three flights at 2,000ft
- Take control of the glider as you rise on the thermals and experience breathtaking silent flight
- Expert instruction form your qualified pilot
- Includes one months' membership of the gliding club
Key Info

Availability

Seven days a week throughout the year, including bank holidays. The club is closed during the Christmas period. Weekends are particularly busy - book at least six weeks in advance. Bookings are more likely to be available on weekdays.

Participant Guidelines

Minimum age is 16. Minimum height is 5', maximum 6'4''. Minimum weight is 7 stone, maximum 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. The office is open from 8.30am (9am winter). If your course is cancelled because of the weather, it will be re-booked for an alternative date.

Duration

The length of glider flights depends entirely on the prevailing thermals (currents of warmer air that provide the lift). As a guide each aerotow flight should last for between 12 and 20 minutes. Expect to be at the venue for up to four hours in total.

Numbers On Day

There will be a pupil:instructor ratio of 2:1.

Spectators

Spectators are welcome, but must follow safety directions whilst on site. Young children must be closely supervised at all times. 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

Your flights total 6,000ft and will consist of either three 2,000ft tows, or one 4,000ft tow and one 2,000ft tow, depending on conditions on the day and your own preference.
Reviews

A Good Day

Mahomed L, 11 May 2011

There was no problem in upgading my gift voucher and all was booked easily and follow up was made by Red Letter. They used Bookers Gliding Club which is a welcoming and friendly and helpful. I had a very enjoyable experience and chose 2 flights each to 3000ft.

Exceeded All Expectations

Ivan C, 14 Mar 2010

I received a warm welcome at the club and my instructor was excellent. He carefully covered all of the safety issues which gave me the confidence on my second flight to take complete control of the glider from 3,000 feet down to 1,000 feet. I had not expected to have so much hands on control.

A Great Experience, And A Truly Memorable Day.

Chris S, 14 Aug 2009

My instructor Martin was excellent in his pre flight training and allowed me to take the controls as much as possible, except for the take off and landing. I will certainly consider going back for some more flights. Highly recommended.

Freedom Of The Sky!

Geoff K, 10 Jul 2009

Amazing experience - John, my tutor, was exceptional and allowed me to fly the glider. I sat in the front seat whilst he instructed from the seat behind. Managed to catch some thermals and soared through the sky - fantastic unobstructed views at over 3,000 feet up.

An Awesome Way To Spend A Day :-)

Anita E, 10 May 2009

I have wanted to try gliding for a long time and my boyfriend got me a gliding experience for Christmas, I waited until May to do it hoping the weather would be better by then, and I couldn't have wished for a better day ... blue skies, white fluffy clouds and lots of sunshine. My instructor, Emily, was friendly, informative and patient. I thoroughly enjoyed every second of my experience and had control of the glider for pretty much all of my 2 flights with the exception of take off, landing and an amazing loop the loop! My first flight lasted 45 minutes and the second 35, I decided to go for the 3000 + 3000ft option but on the second flight managed to catch a great thermal and climb to 4000ft - the maximum allowed for a beginner. I would recommend this to everyone and I'm sure I will be trying it out again one day.

I Had No Idea You Could Loop In A Glider!

Bruce B, 22 Sep 2008

Weather not great but excellent tuition made the most of the conditions. I would recommend this activity - the instructor hit exactly the right balance. I had no idea you could loop in a glider!!!

Brilliant

Sean T R, 01 May 2008

In a word, brilliant! Soaring at 4000 feet, with perfect gliding conditions, sharing the thermal you found with a hawk. It doesn't get much better than that.