Since it was formed by the merger of the former Dukeries and Newark & Notts Gliding Clubs, Darlton GC's new site has been rapidly developed, starting from farmland, to create a 1.4 km grass airstrip complete with two hangars, glider maintenance shop, and a large clubhouse. These facilities offer year–round flying opportunities for our active, enthusiastic membership, while the siting and SW alignment of the airfield creates excellent soaring opportunities from March to October.

Flying Operations

Flying takes place, weather permitting, on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday every week. Additionally, we usually fly Bank Holiday Mondays and hold two flying weeks in early and late summer. Launching normally starts around 10 am, with flying continuing until sunset. Friday evening Group Flying Experiences can be provided by prior booking during the summer months.

Gliders are launched by winch cables that will tow the gliders to heights of between 1200' to 2000' — depending on wind conditions.

Gliding Instruction and Training

DGC has a large complement of BGA qualified Gliding Instructors who are always available when club flying takes place to offer free instruction and training to all levels for club members.

The club owns and operates a varied, well balanced fleet of gliders that includes two–seater training craft for use by club members, a number of whom also fly their own gliders from the site.

Membership and Fees

Our club is non-commercial in that none of the club officials or instructors are paid for their duties on the airfield or around the club. This allows our membership and flying fees to be among the most competitive in the region. In return members are expected to play a full role helping prepare and launch gliders.

Joining  the club is easy; most prospective members start with a Trial Flight or Course, which include 30 days temporary membership. Then, if the gliding bug has bitten, they can apply for full annual membership. Special rates are offered to Junior Members. Anyone considering joining is welcome to visit to see, first-hand, our club.