Trial Lessons

If you think that you might like to learn to fly a glider, or if you would simply like to experience the thrill of unpowered flight, the best way to start is with a trial lesson. You will be flown by one of our experienced instructors and will have the opportunity to try the controls for your self, if you would like to. Trial lessons can be arranged via the contact page.

On the day of your trial lesson you will receive a briefing from your instructor, who will explain the controls and the procedures involved in launching and flying the glider.

Depending on conditions, or your preference, you will be launched by one of two methods. With an aero tow the glider is towed behind our Falke motor glider, usually to a height of 2,000 feet, and then released. With an auto tow the glider is towed behind a modified pickup truck. You will typically reach a height of around 1600 feet on the launch. After the launch your instructor will attempt to climb higher using rising warm air currents called thermals. If you have taken an auto tow and this is unsuccesful so that your flight is very short you will be offered a second launch. We aim to give you around half an hour in the air but, as with all things gliding, this is subject to conditions.

The cost of a trial lesson is £60. If you have bought or been given a voucher from the British Gliding Association you can use this to pay for your flight.

You are welcome to bring friends or family to your trial lesson, however animals are not permitted on the airfield. The procedure for entering the airfield will be explained when you book your lesson.

Airfields are potentially dangerous places, especially to those unfamiliar with them, so you will receive a simple safety briefing at the launch point to enable you to enjoy your day safely. The main points are to stay clear of the runway and taxi ways and to be alert for aircraft and moving vehicles. When spectating or waiting for your flight remain in the vicinity of the launchpoint bus. Children must be closely supervised.

Yeovilton is a working airfield and military operations may disrupt the gliding programe at short or no notice.

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