Growing up in Cornwall, it was common to see gliders getting a tow up from the local airfield. I always thought of gliding as a kind of boring version of flying - no motor, no speed, no practical use.
Having spent quite a lot of time and money training for my PPL, I have learned that it takes quite a lot of time and money to fly light aircraft. With 100 hour overhauls, skyrocketing airport fees and a continuous fuel burn - it all adds up.
To top it off, here in Sydney at least - it’s arguable exactly how much freedom flying a plane actually buys you.
Recently I’ve been staggered by how much technology has changed things and I hadn’t even noticed.
Hobby scale microelectronics is now so approachable that a software developer with the most primitive understanding of electronics can build industrial quality prototype products.
Check out what engineering and modern composites have done for the humble sport of gliding!
This video, shot in France, shows a glider which is tow-launched to a low altitude. Two gliders then circle together in a thermal soaring to a high altitude. They then head off into the mountains to find a ridge to surf along using the updraft as lift.
Afterwards, they head out of the peaks and over a lake to find another thermal to ascend in ready to surf the next ridge!
I’m pretty keen to start my training this summer - where do I sign up?
Didn’t realise you had your pilot ticket! I’ve always loved the idea of gliding, but never done it. My Dad was a private pilot though, so I’ve always had the interest.
I haven’t completed the PPL yet but I will one day. It is a lot of fun!