Another type of aircraft you will be given the opportunity to fly in is a glider. The ATC operates two such types of glider: The Vigilant T1, A self launching motor glider, and the Viking T1, a winch launching glider.

The Viking is the main winch launching aircraft that the ATC operates. It is launched into the air by 1500 metres of steel cable, which pulls the glider up into the sky until the pilot releases it. A flight in a viking will typically last 5-6 minutes, even longer if the pilot can make use of thermals in the local area.

Grob Vigilant T1 Gliders

The Vigilant, despite being a powered aircraft, can also be flown as a glider by allowing the engine to idle, or by switching it off all together. On your first few flights you will experience the Vigilant being flown as a powered aircraft rather then a glider, as it's easier to teach the basics with the engine turned on. Where as a typical flight in a Viking will last 5-6 minutes before you need to relaunch, a Vigilant can go for up to 45 minutes.

Your first 3 flights in a glider will consist of learning the Gliding Induction Course (GIC) syllabus. This involves learning basic handling of the aircraft on a 20-30 minute flight:

• GIC1: Pitch
• GIC2: Roll
• GIC3: Yaw

A cadet returning from a sortie

Gliding Scholarship Cadets

Once you have reached the age of 16 and obtained the Leading Cadet classification, you can apply for a gliding Scholarship. If you check out and have been accepted you will go off for a one week course to do 8-10 hours of gliding. If you pass, you will earn your Blue GS Wings.

Gliding Scholarship Wings

If you are good enough you can try your hand at gliding SOLO and earn yourself the Silver Gliding Wings.

Gliding Scholarship Solo Wings

After successful completion of the Silver wings, you have the option to carry on further and pursue Advanced Gliding Training (AGT), which once complete will earn you your Gold Wings.

Advanced Glider Training Wings