Your Gliding Experience Day
We want you, and visitors coming with you, to get the most out of your day, so here is some simple advice to help achieve that!
Clothing
Because it is an open space, exposed to winds, an airfield
can always feel that bit chillier. On the other hand you may
get lots of sun (if there's any around) so sun-block and sun
glasses can be useful. Getting into the glider is a little like
stepping over into a deep bath; although we can help the
infirm, long dresses are a hindrance!
Footwear: Remember, an airfield is just that –
a field – so sensible flat shoes are best.
Cameras
You are welcome to take a camera with you on your flight, but it must be secured to you by a wrist or neck strap. This is to prevent it being dropped in the cockpit, where it could interfere with the controls.
Airfield Safety
When you are at the airfield some hazards may be obvious to you – others may not! These include gliders coming in to land silently and rapidly from unexpected directions, the steel cables that are laid on the ground and then used to winch-launch the gliders, and vehicles moving around the field
- Keep to the extreme edges of the field, never walk into the middle
- Children must be closely supervised at all times
- Do not bring dogs onto the airfield
- Keep well clear of any cables
- Follow carefully any instructions given by a club member
Arrival at the Airfield
Please park near the club house. A club member will usually be nearby to guide you to the Launch Point. If, because of wind direction, launching is from the opposite end of the field, the club minibus will transport you from the clubhouse.
At the Launch Point
The Launch Point can be a busy area, under control of the Duty Pilot (wearing an orange fluorescent jacket). Please keep to the coned-off area unless you, or your guests, are told it's OK to approach the gliders. Signalling lights on the front of the launch bus are used to control the winch - please ensure your guests do not stand forward of the bus, or obscure the signal lights. Keep well clear of the winch cables/chutes at all times.
Trial Flights
Use the Events Calendar to check our planned flying dates. Although there is no need to pre-book a time and date for your flight we recommend you telephone beforehand — if convenient try calling the Launch Point from 10 am on the day. You will be able to check that we are operating, get advice on the weather conditions etc. And knowing your plans helps us plan launches for the day.
Course Participants
You will have a pre-arranged date and time, but if you have any doubts about the weather conditions please call ahead for confirmation that we will be flying.
