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In gliding, aircraft without engines are used. The gliders are towed into the air, and the pilots find thermals which are currents of warm air rising from the ground, and use them to gain height before gliding downward to the next thermal.

Popularity
Gliding is enjoyed by a range of people, for some as a casual hobby enabling them to enjoy the flying experience, for others as a inexpensive way to enjoy the grace and silence of flying regularly, while to many its a competitive acrobatic sport.

Location
For most people you will need the facilities of a Gliding club, these can be found in most counties throughout the country. And by joining a club you get the added social camaraderie of like interested people.

Age
Gliding as a passenger is an activity for all ages, you may go solo after the necessary instruction has been obtained from the age of sixteen. There is no upper age limit, although from the age of seventy you do need a doctors ok to fly.

Ability
As a general rule if you are able to drive a car you have the ability to glide, in fact many say it is easier to pilot a glider than to drive a car.

Description
Most gliders are monoplanes with long slender wings, able to use air currents. gliders have a low sinking speed and can glide at very flat angles. Having no engine they are launched by one of three methods, by aerotowing by car and winch or by bungee launch. Once the tow rope is dropped free the pilot either soars upward, if in an upward warm air current or glides downwards towards the next thermal, You are now airborne and enjoying the same thermals as the birds.

Dedication
As with all flying safety is paramount. Air space is controlled by air traffic rules according to local conditions. To ensure safety both in the air and on the ground.

Potential
For the vast majority gliding is a relaxing way of enjoying the peacefulness and grace of engine-less flight. For others it is a full blooded competitive sport, with competitions held worldwide.

Closely Related Activities
Hang gliding, flying a microlight and all other forms of flying.

Cost
Gliding can be expensive or inexpensive. Most clubs have two seat er craft you can try gliding as a passenger, or single seaters you can use if a competent solo pilot. If you wish to purchase your own glider, you can normally cheapen it by joining a syndicate.

Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.

Energy

Arms

Legs

Sight

Hearing

Speech

Learning

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