FAQ
How do gliders fly?
Most commonly gliders are towed aloft behind a towplane. At altitude they separate from the towplane and glide through the sky in search of thermals, which are areas of rising air currents. Circling in the thermals will allow the glider to gain altitude and continue its flight. When there is no longer any lift or the reserved time is up, the glider will glide back to the airport.
Is it noisy?
No, it is actually quite quiet. When flying in a glider the pilot and passenger can communicate with each other in a normal speaking voice.
How long does a flight last?
An Introductory Lesson or Demo Flight begins with a 3000’ tow and lasts between twenty and thirty minutes. A student taking a training flight may stay up much longer if the conditions are good.
How should I dress for my flight?
Dress as you would to spend time outdoors. In addition bring sunglasses, a hat (one that does not have a button on top of it), and you will probably want to bring a camera as well. Also bring some type of sunblock for protection from sunburns.
How long does it take to become a glider pilot?
The FAA requires you to fly for a minimum of 10 hours and to fly solo for a minimum of 2 hours. There is no time limit on accomplishing these requirements. Your schedule and your finances dictate the time it takes to complete your training.
How much does it cost to get a Glider Pilot certificate?
Well, there are many variables that can affect the cost but generally the training for a Private Pilot Glider certificate will cost about $2500.00.
I am already a pilot. What would it take to add a Glider rating to my certificate?
A Private add-on rating requires enough dual instruction to solo the glider and then 10 solo take-offs and landings, instructional prep flights and a checkride. A Commercial add-on rating requires enough dual to solo the glider and then 20 solo take-offs and landings, instructional prep flights and a checkride. There is no written test for an add-on rating. As a bonus an add-on rating will also satisfy the requirements for a Flight Review per FAR 61.56.
How much will that cost?
A Private add-on will cost approximately $1500.00. A Commercial add-on will cost approximately $2500.00.
When can I fly?
We are open seven days a week, year round, with our hours varying slightly depending on the season. Lessons are scheduled at your convenience and are conducted one-on-one with your instructor at your own pace.
Is flying gliders safe?
Flying a glider is one of the safest forms of aviation. We practice safety with every flight and teach safety to everyone that comes through our system. We work hard to make it as safe as it can be. Statistically, the drive to the airport contains considerably more risk than your flight.
What to bring?
Want to come out and discover what glider flight is like? The summer months in Texas are HOT - and that is no surprise. So please dress for the warmer weather by wearing light weight, loose fitting clothing. Bring and apply sunblock and always have something to drink (water is best). Bringing a small cooler with your drinks and a snack is always the best plan when heading out to join us for a day of flying. Remember that our operations are done outside and a hat and sun glasses are an important thing to bring. The summer is the best time for thermals so come out and beat the heat and get some flying in.