Flying or gliding experience?
Discussion
Strange coincidence that I should notice this thread, as this Sunday just gone I had a couple of glider flights, first in 50 years (previous two were when I was in the Air Scouts).
First flight was too early in the morning for thermals and lasted 5 minutes. Second was at 4 in the afternoon, caught some really good ones and lasted 47 minutes!
I did feel a bit queasy at one point, when the instructor was demonstrating the effect of too much input to the controls, and had to ask him to stop! I do agree that the steepness of the climb on a winch launch can be a bit disconcerting at first, but once you're used to it is quite enjoyable. One thing I never realised, was the push you get when you hit a powerful thermal - it's like being in a lift.
Went back today but the weather gave us a vote of no confidence after 40 minutes so we only had time for four flights - bit of a shame because my name was seventh on the list!
Is this going to be my new hobby? Well, I've just cancelled the MX-5 I was going to buy.
First flight was too early in the morning for thermals and lasted 5 minutes. Second was at 4 in the afternoon, caught some really good ones and lasted 47 minutes!
I did feel a bit queasy at one point, when the instructor was demonstrating the effect of too much input to the controls, and had to ask him to stop! I do agree that the steepness of the climb on a winch launch can be a bit disconcerting at first, but once you're used to it is quite enjoyable. One thing I never realised, was the push you get when you hit a powerful thermal - it's like being in a lift.
Went back today but the weather gave us a vote of no confidence after 40 minutes so we only had time for four flights - bit of a shame because my name was seventh on the list!
Is this going to be my new hobby? Well, I've just cancelled the MX-5 I was going to buy.
Where are you flying from? I guess if the instructor was demonstrating that sort of stuff he has you in mind as a pupil rather than as a "joy ride" (yes I know we can't call them joy rides for insurance purposes but hey ho...) I'm in north Lincs so I fly from Trent Valley Gliding Club. I've just bought 4 weeks membership so hopefully can get enough flights in during that time, for someone to be able to tell me whether I show any promise or not.
Strangely enough I hate heights! Doesn't seem to bother me in an aircraft though, I wonder whether it's because everything is further away so is different from looking out a window in a tall building.
Strangely enough I hate heights! Doesn't seem to bother me in an aircraft though, I wonder whether it's because everything is further away so is different from looking out a window in a tall building.
Evangelion said:
Strangely enough I hate heights! Doesn't seem to bother me in an aircraft though, I wonder whether it's because everything is further away so is different from looking out a window in a tall building.
Some think it is because you are sat down, either way glad you enjoyed it and hope you get some decent weather in the 4 weeks to really get a taste.4 weeks won't be long enough but trust me there's nothing like the exhilaration of your first few solo flights! Once you are up there alone, literally on a wing and a prayer without an instructor chirping away from the back seat it really sets in. Just you and the elements and no engine, the thought and memory still sends a little tingle up my spine !
Gassing Station | Boats, Planes & Trains | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff