Trial Flights

Glider Air Experience Flight (Glider Trial Flights)

You can book a Glider Aire Experience or Glider Trial Flight for yourself or purchase a Gift Voucher for somebody else.

Gift vouchers are valid for 36 months from the date of purchase. Most air experience flights are around 35-45 minutes in duration depending on conditions. If conditions are good then you can stay up for much longer. Click here for prices

If you would like to make a special day of the event, we would be more than happy to help. The gliding club is located in the beautiful Reflections Holiday Park with many lovely spots for a picnic. You are also welcome to make use of the club facilities while you are there. You can extend your stay, our club has a range of onsite accommodation options. Click here for details (On-Site Accommodation – Lake Keepit Soaring Club)

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to fly?

A glider climbs using rising warm air or thermals and then glides when it is descending. Thermals start mid-morning during the warmer months of the year and build to a maximum strength in mid-afternoon. They then weaken towards sunset. If you want a smooth flight with less bumps, mornings or late in the afternoon is best. If you want to stay up longer, come towards the middle of the day, but be aware it might be a little bumpy.

Weather conditions?

All flying is weather dependent so if you are unsure about the conditions, ring the club in advance to check before you come out.

How far ahead do I have to book?

You can purchase a Gift Voucher at any time onsite or in our webshop but it is best to give us a minimum of 24 hours’ notice before you want to redeem it. Phone and find out what’s going to be available when you want to fly and tell us what sort of experience you want to get from your flight … and then make your booking.

Physical considerations?

Air experience flights are suitable for almost everyone, however there are some guidelines based on sailplane construction.
Weight – Max passenger weight is 110Kg and minimum weight is 50Kg.
Height – Sailplane cockpits are built like a sports car, so anyone over 198cm tall may have trouble fitting comfortably.
Mobility limitations – If you have mobility limitations that may restrict you climbing in and out of a glider, please contact the club reception to discuss options. We offer assisted loading and unloading via a sling and portable lifting device. Please contact the club if you have concerns in any of these areas.

How long do flights last?

Gliding is weather dependent and so flights can be longer or shorter than anticipated. In general a flight will last 20 – 30 minutes but may be extended beyond 30 minutes if conditions permit.

Can larger groups be accommodated?

Training gliders are two-seat aircraft and so can take a single passenger only. The club has several two-seat gliders available, so if you want to fly at the same time as a friend, let us know in advance so that this can be arranged. Large groups of people can usually be catered for given sufficient notice.

What to wear?

It is always cooler at altitude, so come dressed for the weather conditions on the ground, but have an extra layer in the car just in case. Your pilot can advise you on the day. Also, be aware that it is a club rule that pilots and passengers wear parachutes while flying and so long pants or shorts are preferred.