I always loved the winch launches in the glider. Closest thing civilians can do to a fighter jet catapult launch off a carrier. Such an instant rush of adrenaline
I used to fly from a club in the southeast for many years, and I can confirm the problem of power aircraft overflying on operational days. Part of the standard launch procedure is for the signaller to indicate "all clear above and behind" (ie no conflicting traffic) immediately prior to the launch. But with GA aircraft closing at potentially high speed, it is possible for a conflicting aircraft to cross our immediate airspace in a very short time. The increase in the amount of electronic navigation aids has, I suspect, not helped, as it can lead to spending more of the time with the pilots head stuck firmly inside the cockpit. Always handy to remember, whatever other devices you may have, there is nothing to beat the mark 1 eyeball.
Yes it would be a good idea for all pilots to try gliding. I have flown sail planes and still fly paragliders as well as power fixed wing. We have had a few light aircraft fly low over our paragliding tow field in Norfolk (not understanding the foot launch mark on the map possible and that we go up to 2000ft on tow), also that we are likely to be gliding around down wind of the field. I have had to pleasure of looking down into the cockpit of a light aircraft while on tow (not something I would like to see again) and several times while on a glide, which has cost me hight as I have done a tight 360 to flash my wing to be seen. The problem with gliders is they are very hard to see from the front and rear, so glider pilots have to keep an eye out for powered aircraft to avoid / flash wings. As a powered pilot, talking to other GA & microlight pilots, I am suprised at how many rely on electronic conpicuity systems like pilot aware and not the mark one eye ball and how they don't think about possible glider activity areas (so don't plan for it in their flight planning). This video is great to help raise the subject.
I’ve heard that learning to fly gliders makes you a much better pilot because you’re always thinking about where you could land, and being highly conscious of momentum and weather
I am also a glider and power A/C owner and couldn’t agree more with the sentiment from the back seat of the Duo Discus. Gliding is my sport, GA flying is a different discipline that enables you to go somewhere, land and get a cup of tea. I tend to focus on GA flying in the Winter when there’s little or no opportunity to glide and the opposite in the Summer. It’s a way to enjoy different aspects of flying throughout the year. Doing it also gives me a better understanding of where gliders are likely to be on certain days and where GA aircraft are likely to be every day I fly. It’s also useful to know where and when the gliding competitions take place, know the daily tasks set and be better aware where gliders are likely to be concentrated.
Wow! What fun!!!! Sorry to hear about the Club's loss 😪 Can't believe I'm still catching up on all your videos, you could clearly tell you enjoyed that experience. Amazing editing, once again! 👍👍👍
Gliding is the poetry of flight. It may not take you anywhere fast but It takes you to wonderful places in your mind. It makes you appreciate the awesome forces of nature and the beauty of our world like nothing else.
Impressive work John, it felt like watching a documentary on TV. Extremely good quality video, audio and edition. Congratulations for this and keep it up. Great channel, you are helping me loads as I have just started my PPL in Sheburn in Elmet. Take care !
Excellent video. As a member of another Gliding club, I am shocked at the number of aircraft which fly straight over us seemingly oblivious of the danger from winch cables.
I fly paragliders and have moved near to a gliding club, well two actually, I'm amazed how much more flying they get compared to paragliders, I must learn.
This is a great video, especially the chance for Mark's detailed explanation from the front seat of the tug aircraft. Thanks for taking the time to put the film together.
Excellent film there Jon, looks like you had tremendous fun! I've been gliding at HusBos a handful of times and been behind the tug, but seeing the tug operation from their perspective was eye opening. Thanks for sharing :)
A great piece Jon. I learned a lot from it and it was great to see the tug pilot at work too. You managed to fit so much into and it resulted in a very professional production. Well done, and I'm looking forward to viewing all your productions.
Great video, thank you. So nice to see DH Chipmunks still flying and working. I was an air cadet a few decades ago (well 1970) and did about 20 hours in Chippies then a gliding course at West Malling, Kent. It's now a housing estate with an ATC building.
Another great video. The quality of the filming and commentary was top notch. Does make me want to try gliding, looks really good fun. Thanks Jon. Don't forget there is still the offer of a dodgy brew next time you visit Headcorn.
Fantastic Video John. At Wycombe we have Intense Gliding (which are non-radio!) as well as Student Fixed Wing and Heli ops on the tower. I've always seen them as a bit of a pain and hazard but now i think i have a bit more respect for when they just bomb in un-announced! Might go and pay the boys in the next hanger a visit and see if they'll take me up! Please keep up the information videos like this one and the LARS. Its such an insight to our world even though we fly in it regularly and it sets your videos apart from everyone else on the net. Blue skies, Safe landings!
What a great video John, very informative and made me smile throughout!. Im a PPL pilot myself out of Wellesbourne and this has made me want to give gliding a go now! keep up the good videos
I used to keep my ASW20 at Husbands Bosworth in the summer months & commute from Dublin, wonderful club, great people. Look up Steve Fossets sailplane records to see what can be done. To match many long distance glider flights in a light aircraft you would need to refuel 3 or more times!
Jon - just watched the video and absolutely brilliant! Your face in landing was cracking. I'm fascinated by that little piece of string and quite how an air brake feels. It's on my bucket list, but it's just moved up an item or two! Keep up the good work, your videos are excellent. Andy T
+Andy Torkington thanks Andy. The string is the slip indicator! I didn't notice the air brakes actions... they use it like a throttle (in reverse) on approach to control rate of descent. It was a lot of fun. Give it a go if you can.
I love your films. I have been lucky enough to experience gliding and powered flying on and off throughout my life and enjoy them both. I have to admit I hate winch launching as my poor old bod has never coped with rapid Acceleration, (!!!) but tug launches are fab. Gliding makes for excellent pilots and true airmen. You have such a deep understanding of the element you fly in as well as the obsessive need to keep a very good lookout. Plus, every landing you attempt will always be a full stop, so planning and judgment are honed very early on. So good to see this film, thanks.
It's a small world - I know Simon Smith from when I used to live in the UK! Lovely guy, hope you had a great time flying with him. Awesome video Jon, cheers, Stef.
Brilliant production, clips like this are why i use RUclips. I am so torn as to what kind of flying to consider. I've spent time spectating and talking to people at Sherburn In Elmet and visited Burn Gliding club many times. Both are in Yorkshire and also considering microlights. I've no idea what to try as my last GA flight was about 15 years ago. Safe flying everyone.
Fantastic John. The cost factor is a big plus and has been my route route into power flying with concessions available to qualified glider pilots and a potential hour building route towing gliders for free! Perhaps you should try a motor glider sometime too! We have had a similar day at Lasham recently getting pilots from Brimpton and Popham to see our operation. With airfields closing and risk of more controlled airspace the GA community needs to work as one. And efforts like yours and husbands bosworth are just what is needed!
Really interesting Jon, I was hoping to fly over this area and visit some family, It's so important to be aware of the 3.6 overflying minimum altitudes. I'll more than likely have a visit and go for a glide now thanks to your video. :)
@@TheFlyingReporter hi there, this might be a dumb question but if there are no clouds in the sky ( cumulus clouds) can you still fly a glider,, cheers
@@farokhbulsara4890 There are no dumb questions here...with the caveat that I'm not a glider pilot, I would say yes. You can glide along ridges and hills where the wind crosses the ridge, causing an updraft. Also, thermals on a hot day I would presume can be useful for gliding.
@@farokhbulsara4890 gliders can fly without lift we just come back down again, there are three types of lift wave ridge which require specific winds and terrain and thermals which are often marked by cumulus clouds . they can however appear without the cloud called 'blue thermals'
Cracking video - flew near Husbands Bosworth on my QXC on the way into Sywell. I'd already avoided it, but my instructor was very keen to make sure I went nowhere near - can absolutely see why now!
Nice work; an excellent short view of gliding and a great idea from the club to break down the silos between different groups using the same sky, albeit instigated by tragedy. I own a Discus b, the single seat version of the glider in this film. While the absence of an engine may seem daunting, I've just started competition and found myself tackling courses of 100 miles and more. Once you're able to use the sky to stay aloft, where you are in relation to your home field is almost irrelevant. I had the fear of landing out (i.e. needing to find a suitable field & land in it), which I overcame simply by picking suitable fields from higher up, at 2,500', so that I could concentrate on flying. In the last outlanding which I did, I came across the fence at ~7' with half airbrake, then rapidly pulled full brake and full back stick. The higher angle of attack produced more lift, which balanced the increased drag and descent rate of full spoiler so that the glider settled firmly (but not so hard as to rattle my teeth). I was stopped 100 paces from the fence; only 30 paces of that left a mark on the ground. Gliders are very slippery beasts. Do try gliding: it'll give you a different perspective on flying, you'll learn more accurate flying (from aerotow and landings) as well as more about meteorology.
😢One of my Neighbours was an ex P51 pilot ... he was an instructor and he really enjoyed his Gliding he would enjoyed flying yo days high tech gliders ....
Great video Jon, good content and well filmed and nicely edited. I have done some gliding and do operate the Jodel alongside gliding operations but for some people I am sure the points that are made will serve a good purpose.
Another great video Jon. I would encourage all power pilots to have some gliding experience or even do a short course prior to starting PPL or NPL training. It teaches flight principles and awareness. If you can find a glider site that does tug launches all the better. Check out the British Gliding Association (BGA) for details. Unfortunately I too see power aircraft still over-flying glider sites below 2,000 ft without advisory or notice - perhaps they ought to put down Sky Demon and use a little more paper planning. Sad day for gliding on December 4 2016, lost Matt Wright (Balleka) also on the same day due to a winch launch accident.
No problem :) I only recently discovered you but have been busy watching all your videos. It's very interesting as you quite often fly over my town, and point it out in your route.
My only foray into gliding was in a Blanik in the Black mountains. It was a tough old metal aircraft, with just one drawback -on landing it sounded like a high speed steam roller hitting a dustbin factory.
Jon has done a good job to explain what we are all about. You will be welcome.GA Pilots are welcome to visit The Gliding Centre. ALL INFO on web site and phone for update. If you are thinking of flying in Call first with ETA AND YOUR CALL SIGN. The field is 27/09 ALL GRASS with winching up to 3000 ASL do not join over head.www.theglidingcentre.co.uk Fly safe and enjoy the sky
I too was a glider beginner after I earned my wings at Blackbushe. It was a huge contrast and I have to admit that it feels closer to being a bird in a glider than in a PA28. What bugs me was that gliding clubs are usually much busier than flying clubs and you have to wait for hours before flying the glider, which might last less than 10 minutes if there is no rising air.
Great video Jon (top class production values as ever). I agree with Simon Smith in that I don't know why we GA pilots tend to become a bit tribal and develop what can only be an unhealthy 'us' and 'them' attitude.
Fab video John! Really informative and interesting. Given that we all operate a see & avoid policy, I can't help wondering why all aircraft aren't painted in high contrast colours to aid visibility. A white glider against a white cloud must be really difficult to spot, as is any GA aircraft in a similar situation. I think I'd like to have a go at gliding someday.
Most, if not all, composite sailplanes are painted white because of the heat tolerance of the material. Even the Pilot Operating Handbook asks that the aircraft remains white to reduce the heating effects of the sun.
Ditto Glider 123. It's not by choice that composite gliders are white. Look at the RAF Grob Tutor fleet, they're white as well. The gelcoat and fibreglass are not great with high levels of UV or heat. Technologies are improving though to allow better visibility, such as low power strobe LED lights. Early findings have been good!
Surrey Hills GC , currently doing an on line frtol course ... enjoy and learning your radio procedure, useful to help getting the 'ear in'. Often soar down to the the M25 J6 - 7 and see GA beneath , look up & give us a wave.
Power pilots are usually dumbfounded when they hear we often climb at 1,000 ft a minute, (in excellent conditions), or travel cross country at 90 - 135 knots. My highest altitude reached (legally) was 21,200 ft. at Minden, Nevada USA.
I would love to. Powered pilots who can't get a medical anymore, I wish I could switch to gliders. Sadly, it's my eyes that are the problem. They won't allow me to use guide dogs. :'(
The gliding centre welcomes all visitors, come and have a coffee have a look around and maybe HAVE A GO. Suggest you look at the web site www.theglidingcentre.co.uk
Superb video. Always want to try gliding and the costs are attractive, especially with the student and junior rates however just haven't got round to it. Does the tug go higher than the winch or is that choice purely up to personal preference?
At big airfields like Husbands Bosworth the winch will easily get you to lift if it's a good day. Does require more skill though as the aerotow gives you more time. Depends what your budget allows.
Great piece, this. I learned to glide at HusBos in the 90s but haven't flown in 20 years now. If you get the chance, go back and have a go at winching - you powered chaps will think you're on a theme park ride! Heaps of fun :)
Looks fantastic! Near the start, you say if a glider's wings touch the ground whilst taking off, the wire has to be released, is that because of the sudden breaking caused by friction?
Wing touching the ground will make that tip drag and if not corrected in time will want to turn the aircraft (ground loop, uncontrolled turn) This could in turn pose a threat to the aircrafts involved and their occupants and also people/equipment on the ground. So if a wing touch the ground it is safer to abort take off roll and try again.
Just don't tell them about Western Australia. My first solo lasted almost 60 minutes and thermals took me up to 8000'. Nothing like my earlier experience in Slingsby Sedberghs in the UK in the early 70s.
I always loved the winch launches in the glider. Closest thing civilians can do to a fighter jet catapult launch off a carrier. Such an instant rush of adrenaline
19:15 you never wanna wish a glider pilot blue skies 😂
I used to fly from a club in the southeast for many years, and I can confirm the problem of power aircraft overflying on operational days. Part of the standard launch procedure is for the signaller to indicate "all clear above and behind" (ie no conflicting traffic) immediately prior to the launch. But with GA aircraft closing at potentially high speed, it is possible for a conflicting aircraft to cross our immediate airspace in a very short time.
The increase in the amount of electronic navigation aids has, I suspect, not helped, as it can lead to spending more of the time with the pilots head stuck firmly inside the cockpit.
Always handy to remember, whatever other devices you may have, there is nothing to beat the mark 1 eyeball.
Yes it would be a good idea for all pilots to try gliding. I have flown sail planes and still fly paragliders as well as power fixed wing. We have had a few light aircraft fly low over our paragliding tow field in Norfolk (not understanding the foot launch mark on the map possible and that we go up to 2000ft on tow), also that we are likely to be gliding around down wind of the field. I have had to pleasure of looking down into the cockpit of a light aircraft while on tow (not something I would like to see again) and several times while on a glide, which has cost me hight as I have done a tight 360 to flash my wing to be seen. The problem with gliders is they are very hard to see from the front and rear, so glider pilots have to keep an eye out for powered aircraft to avoid / flash wings.
As a powered pilot, talking to other GA & microlight pilots, I am suprised at how many rely on electronic conpicuity systems like pilot aware and not the mark one eye ball and how they don't think about possible glider activity areas (so don't plan for it in their flight planning).
This video is great to help raise the subject.
I’ve heard that learning to fly gliders makes you a much better pilot because you’re always thinking about where you could land, and being highly conscious of momentum and weather
I can recommend Cambridge Gliding Centre, if you're ever out that way... Also an excellent, well-run, and friendly club
I live in Cambridge and I’m gonna get this licence
Never wish a glider pilot blue skyes 😂 maybe you shoud have changed your outro to 5/8 cumulus everyone.
So true 😂😂👍
I am also a glider and power A/C owner and couldn’t agree more with the sentiment from the back seat of the Duo Discus. Gliding is my sport, GA flying is a different discipline that enables you to go somewhere, land and get a cup of tea. I tend to focus on GA flying in the Winter when there’s little or no opportunity to glide and the opposite in the Summer. It’s a way to enjoy different aspects of flying throughout the year. Doing it also gives me a better understanding of where gliders are likely to be on certain days and where GA aircraft are likely to be every day I fly. It’s also useful to know where and when the gliding competitions take place, know the daily tasks set and be better aware where gliders are likely to be concentrated.
Wow! What fun!!!!
Sorry to hear about the Club's loss 😪
Can't believe I'm still catching up on all your videos, you could clearly tell you enjoyed that experience. Amazing editing, once again! 👍👍👍
Gliding is the poetry of flight. It may not take you anywhere fast but It takes you to wonderful places in your mind. It makes you appreciate the awesome forces of nature and the beauty of our world like nothing else.
Years later this is a great video, Thanks for making these- enjoying them during lockdown.
Impressive work John, it felt like watching a documentary on TV. Extremely good quality video, audio and edition. Congratulations for this and keep it up. Great channel, you are helping me loads as I have just started my PPL in Sheburn in Elmet.
Take care !
Excellent video. As a member of another Gliding club, I am shocked at the number of aircraft which fly straight over us seemingly oblivious of the danger from winch cables.
I fly paragliders and have moved near to a gliding club, well two actually, I'm amazed how much more flying they get compared to paragliders, I must learn.
Very nice film, very nice flight & very well done.
once again an absolutely stunning video production, thank you so much.
Cheers Neil.
Very well done and a very interesting insight into gliding,well organised little aerodrome.
This is a great video, especially the chance for Mark's detailed explanation from the front seat of the tug aircraft. Thanks for taking the time to put the film together.
Pleasure James.
Excellent film there Jon, looks like you had tremendous fun! I've been gliding at HusBos a handful of times and been behind the tug, but seeing the tug operation from their perspective was eye opening. Thanks for sharing :)
Cheers Nick. There's a real skill to it.
A great piece Jon. I learned a lot from it and it was great to see the tug pilot at work too. You managed to fit so much into and it resulted in a very professional production. Well done, and I'm looking forward to viewing all your productions.
Thanks for watching Kevin.
Great video, thank you. So nice to see DH Chipmunks still flying and working. I was an air cadet a few decades ago (well 1970) and did about 20 hours in Chippies then a gliding course at West Malling, Kent. It's now a housing estate with an ATC building.
Fascinating to see the complexities that go into towing gliders. Great video!
Isn't it? Thanks.
What a brilliant episode this is! Good work!
Thanks Marcus.
Another great video. The quality of the filming and commentary was top notch. Does make me want to try gliding, looks really good fun. Thanks Jon. Don't forget there is still the offer of a dodgy brew next time you visit Headcorn.
+Colin Roblin cheers Colin.
Wonderful video and intro to the sport.
What a great idea and very well put together. Thank you.
Hus Bos were great. Thank you.
Fantastic Video John.
At Wycombe we have Intense Gliding (which are non-radio!) as well as Student Fixed Wing and Heli ops on the tower. I've always seen them as a bit of a pain and hazard but now i think i have a bit more respect for when they just bomb in un-announced!
Might go and pay the boys in the next hanger a visit and see if they'll take me up!
Please keep up the information videos like this one and the LARS. Its such an insight to our world even though we fly in it regularly and it sets your videos apart from everyone else on the net.
Blue skies, Safe landings!
Sounds good. Thank you for watching.
Another great video, Jon.
Cheers. Thanks for watching.
What a great video John, very informative and made me smile throughout!. Im a PPL pilot myself out of Wellesbourne and this has made me want to give gliding a go now! keep up the good videos
It's worth a try...if just for fun!
Simon, why not come along to Shenington
Excellent film.
Superb Video. They just get better and better.
Cheers Adrian.
I used to keep my ASW20 at Husbands Bosworth in the summer months & commute from Dublin, wonderful club, great people. Look up Steve Fossets sailplane records to see what can be done. To match many long distance glider flights in a light aircraft you would need to refuel 3 or more times!
Jon - just watched the video and absolutely brilliant! Your face in landing was cracking.
I'm fascinated by that little piece of string and quite how an air brake feels. It's on my bucket list, but it's just moved up an item or two!
Keep up the good work, your videos are excellent.
Andy T
+Andy Torkington thanks Andy. The string is the slip indicator! I didn't notice the air brakes actions... they use it like a throttle (in reverse) on approach to control rate of descent. It was a lot of fun. Give it a go if you can.
The Flying Reporter will do. Thanks mate
I love your films. I have been lucky enough to experience gliding and powered flying on and off throughout my life and enjoy them both. I have to admit I hate winch launching as my poor old bod has never coped with rapid
Acceleration, (!!!) but tug launches are fab. Gliding makes for excellent pilots and true airmen. You have such a deep understanding of the element you fly in as well as the obsessive need to keep a very good lookout. Plus, every landing you attempt will always be a full stop, so planning and judgment are honed very early on. So good to see this film, thanks.
Thanks Lawrence. Flown in a few gliders now and it really does sharpen your skills.
It's a small world - I know Simon Smith from when I used to live in the UK! Lovely guy, hope you had a great time flying with him. Awesome video Jon, cheers, Stef.
+Stefan Drury thanks Stefan. I think Simon mentioned that. Crazy!
Fantastic video.
Absolutely fantastic!
Thank you!
Brilliant production, clips like this are why i use RUclips.
I am so torn as to what kind of flying to consider. I've spent time spectating and talking to people at Sherburn In Elmet and visited Burn Gliding club many times. Both are in Yorkshire and also considering microlights. I've no idea what to try as my last GA flight was about 15 years ago.
Safe flying everyone.
Glad you finally desided to give it a try, it can teach you so much about flying
It was a great experience.
Fantastic John. The cost factor is a big plus and has been my route route into power flying with concessions available to qualified glider pilots and a potential hour building route towing gliders for free! Perhaps you should try a motor glider sometime too!
We have had a similar day at Lasham recently getting pilots from Brimpton and Popham to see our operation. With airfields closing and risk of more controlled airspace the GA community needs to work as one. And efforts like yours and husbands bosworth are just what is needed!
Thanks. Can take no credit for the idea or the day. Simon and HB approached me, and I'm really glad he did. Great idea...great community.
Very nice video Jon. Thank you!
Pleasure.
Really interesting Jon, I was hoping to fly over this area and visit some family, It's so important to be aware of the 3.6 overflying minimum altitudes. I'll more than likely have a visit and go for a glide now thanks to your video. :)
That was fascinating, especially how much work goes into the tug.
Agreed. There's a lot for them to think abut.
As a glider pilot myself, you certainly touched on all the key points of gliding. Happy soaring!
That's great, thanks Peter.
Very very good indeed well worth waiting for.
Thanks David.
Excellent video, Iv been gliding with the air cadets and it’s definitely something to experience :)
Thanks. It was a fun day.
Great video John. If you get a chance to try it again, see if you sample a winch launch - that’s a real white knuckle ride!
Another excellent piece of work Jon. Looks very different to the PA28 or even the Eurostar but great fun! Keep up the good work. Rory
Cheers Rory.
@@TheFlyingReporter hi there, this might be a dumb question but if there are no clouds in the sky ( cumulus clouds) can you still fly a glider,, cheers
@@farokhbulsara4890 There are no dumb questions here...with the caveat that I'm not a glider pilot, I would say yes. You can glide along ridges and hills where the wind crosses the ridge, causing an updraft. Also, thermals on a hot day I would presume can be useful for gliding.
@@TheFlyingReporter ok gotcha, thankyou for the info, would love to try gliding, looks amazing
@@farokhbulsara4890 gliders can fly without lift we just come back down again, there are three types of lift wave ridge which require specific winds and terrain and thermals which are often marked by cumulus clouds . they can however appear without the cloud called 'blue thermals'
Very well made film. I learned a lot and enjoyed the experience immensely - but I'm sticking with my Lycoming!
Thanks Duncan.
Cracking video - flew near Husbands Bosworth on my QXC on the way into Sywell. I'd already avoided it, but my instructor was very keen to make sure I went nowhere near - can absolutely see why now!
It's a busy strip!
Fastatic Video Jon - Great work.
Cheers Alex.
Great video. Flew the Grob 109 from Halton with Alan, lovely chap.
I got a lovely welcome from all of the team at HB.
Cheers! Good flying with you. The 109b is a lovely machine. Alan
Nice work; an excellent short view of gliding and a great idea from the club to break down the silos between different groups using the same sky, albeit instigated by tragedy. I own a Discus b, the single seat version of the glider in this film. While the absence of an engine may seem daunting, I've just started competition and found myself tackling courses of 100 miles and more. Once you're able to use the sky to stay aloft, where you are in relation to your home field is almost irrelevant. I had the fear of landing out (i.e. needing to find a suitable field & land in it), which I overcame simply by picking suitable fields from higher up, at 2,500', so that I could concentrate on flying. In the last outlanding which I did, I came across the fence at ~7' with half airbrake, then rapidly pulled full brake and full back stick. The higher angle of attack produced more lift, which balanced the increased drag and descent rate of full spoiler so that the glider settled firmly (but not so hard as to rattle my teeth). I was stopped 100 paces from the fence; only 30 paces of that left a mark on the ground. Gliders are very slippery beasts. Do try gliding: it'll give you a different perspective on flying, you'll learn more accurate flying (from aerotow and landings) as well as more about meteorology.
Thanks. It was a thrilling experience.
One can only imagine how serene it is gliding at that altitude.
Look up a glider club near you and go fly one. Soaring Society of America- SSA.com if in the States.
Looks like you enjoyed it Jon, Nice video, ty
It was a great day, thanks.
😢One of my Neighbours was an ex P51 pilot ... he was an instructor and he really enjoyed his Gliding he would enjoyed flying yo days high tech gliders ....
Great video Jon, good content and well filmed and nicely edited. I have done some gliding and do operate the Jodel alongside gliding operations but for some people I am sure the points that are made will serve a good purpose.
I hope so Tim. Thanks.
Another great video Jon. I would encourage all power pilots to have some gliding experience or even do a short course prior to starting PPL or NPL training. It teaches flight principles and awareness. If you can find a glider site that does tug launches all the better. Check out the British Gliding Association (BGA) for details. Unfortunately I too see power aircraft still over-flying glider sites below 2,000 ft without advisory or notice - perhaps they ought to put down Sky Demon and use a little more paper planning. Sad day for gliding on December 4 2016, lost Matt Wright (Balleka) also on the same day due to a winch launch accident.
Thanks for watching. Sorry to hear about another fatality.
Another excellent video! You are definitely the best aviation channel on the internet!
+C&S Aviation very kind of you to say so. Thanks.
No problem :) I only recently discovered you but have been busy watching all your videos. It's very interesting as you quite often fly over my town, and point it out in your route.
+C&S Aviation where's that?
Guildford!
I fly from Lasham, and have never flown the other side of Farnborough, so it's nice to see different scenery.
Excellent Video!
Cheers!
My only foray into gliding was in a Blanik in the Black mountains. It was a tough old metal aircraft, with just one drawback -on landing it sounded like a high speed steam roller hitting a dustbin factory.
Ha.. That'll wake you up!
Im going gliding tomorrow with explorers im so excited
Really interesting film. Gliding really wasn't on my list of things to do, but it is now :)
Great. It was a really interesting day.
Great stuff John ;)
+Andy Donaldson thank you Andy.
All those landout options. I'm soooo jealous.
Excellent video, iv just learnt an awful lot from it.
That's great Byron.
"conditions weren't great"
Vario averaging 4.8kts: "I think not"
Really good work though this video describes gliding brilliantly
Wow, an active air field with monster trucks. I've got to this place.
Nice video from you, as always. Should've done a winch launch as its a lot more exciting for a beginner!
There was too much of a crosswind that day.
Jon has done a good job to explain what we are all about. You will be welcome.GA Pilots are welcome to visit The Gliding Centre. ALL INFO on web site and phone for update. If you are thinking of flying in Call first with ETA AND YOUR CALL SIGN. The field is 27/09 ALL GRASS with winching up to 3000 ASL do not join over head.www.theglidingcentre.co.uk Fly safe and enjoy the sky
i realy enjopyede this vid .. thank you
Always amazing a great production ... wlnder if you take it up winks
I too was a glider beginner after I earned my wings at Blackbushe. It was a huge contrast and I have to admit that it feels closer to being a bird in a glider than in a PA28. What bugs me was that gliding clubs are usually much busier than flying clubs and you have to wait for hours before flying the glider, which might last less than 10 minutes if there is no rising air.
Swings and roundabouts Duncan I suppose. I bet the costs are lower though.
I am currently learning to fly a glider!
Good for you! What a great sport you are embarking on.
Great video Jon (top class production values as ever). I agree with Simon Smith in that I don't know why we GA pilots tend to become a bit tribal and develop what can only be an unhealthy 'us' and 'them' attitude.
I had some help with this one! Thanks.
@@TheFlyingReporter Reminds me a lot of power boats and yachts.
1:02 It was a great experience this engine-less flying malarkey 1:25
Fab video John! Really informative and interesting. Given that we all operate a see & avoid policy, I can't help wondering why all aircraft aren't painted in high contrast colours to aid visibility. A white glider against a white cloud must be really difficult to spot, as is any GA aircraft in a similar situation. I think I'd like to have a go at gliding someday.
I've pondered on this myself. I find all traffic difficult to see.
Most, if not all, composite sailplanes are painted white because of the heat tolerance of the material. Even the Pilot Operating Handbook asks that the aircraft remains white to reduce the heating effects of the sun.
Ditto Glider 123. It's not by choice that composite gliders are white. Look at the RAF Grob Tutor fleet, they're white as well. The gelcoat and fibreglass are not great with high levels of UV or heat. Technologies are improving though to allow better visibility, such as low power strobe LED lights. Early findings have been good!
Great views of Minnesota. Was it you or Gred piloting? Very brave
How often is a bailout required? Have personal chutes saved many/any lives?
Surrey Hills GC , currently doing an on line frtol course ... enjoy and learning your radio procedure, useful to help getting the 'ear in'. Often soar down to the the M25 J6 - 7 and see GA beneath , look up & give us a wave.
Impressive video John!!! May I know the GoPro mount that you used in this video? Much appreciate!!
Just the usual GoPro mounts
Power pilots are usually dumbfounded when they hear we often climb at 1,000 ft a minute, (in excellent conditions), or travel cross country at 90 - 135 knots. My highest altitude reached (legally) was 21,200 ft. at Minden, Nevada USA.
Pilot 301
Indeed!
I was able to get to 27,200 at minden
We can also fly hundreds of miles and stay aloft all day ( 6 hours or more!)on one tow.
@@BillPalmer Excellent! Had a Libelle H-301.
Just remember, a glider is meant to stay up there without an engine, whereas a powered plane isn't!
Hahaha that’s funny. And true!
You mentioned that gliders could go as high as 10,000 feet . In the UK 30,000 is not uncommon in wave and in South America over 40 , 000 feet
I love gliding, now you've had a taste... Go solo!
It will be like the first time you went solo powered.
I would love to. Powered pilots who can't get a medical anymore, I wish I could switch to gliders. Sadly, it's my eyes that are the problem. They won't allow me to use guide dogs. :'(
Fly back to the airport is not a really gliding. Only after thying some soaring in thermals you really catch how beautiful glider is.
The gliding centre welcomes all visitors, come and have a coffee have a look around and maybe HAVE A GO. Suggest you look at the web site www.theglidingcentre.co.uk
+Sid Gilmore I'm up your way today Sid! Just landed at Leicester. Thought of our good times last year as I sailed by (keeping a good lookout!)
thank you Jon
I've added the website address on the video description Sid. I should have done that in the first place.
Thanks Jon Regards Sid
Thank you and sorry for the delay in replying, Best wishes and clear sky
Superb video. Always want to try gliding and the costs are attractive, especially with the student and junior rates however just haven't got round to it. Does the tug go higher than the winch or is that choice purely up to personal preference?
Thanks. The tug can take you where you want...so if there are cloud formations giving lift off airport, the tug is your best bet.
At big airfields like Husbands Bosworth the winch will easily get you to lift if it's a good day. Does require more skill though as the aerotow gives you more time. Depends what your budget allows.
Great piece, this. I learned to glide at HusBos in the 90s but haven't flown in 20 years now. If you get the chance, go back and have a go at winching - you powered chaps will think you're on a theme park ride! Heaps of fun :)
Looks fantastic! Near the start, you say if a glider's wings touch the ground whilst taking off, the wire has to be released, is that because of the sudden breaking caused by friction?
I think so, risk of accident.
Wing touching the ground will make that tip drag and if not corrected in time will want to turn the aircraft (ground loop, uncontrolled turn)
This could in turn pose a threat to the aircrafts involved and their occupants and also people/equipment on the ground.
So if a wing touch the ground it is safer to abort take off roll and try again.
i dont know but the teacher is more nervous than the student xD
Gliding is one of the (almost) best kept secrets.
And I just went and told everyone! .
Just don't tell them about Western Australia. My first solo lasted almost 60 minutes and thermals took me up to 8000'. Nothing like my earlier experience in Slingsby Sedberghs in the UK in the early 70s.
I am a student glider pilot and have been for about 15 months. Please can someone tell me what the name of this aircraft is? Thank you
Which aircraft? There were quite a few featured in the film.
Sorry, the glider you went up in...
+Sam Armstrong I think it's a Duo Discus...probably something like this. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schempp-Hirth_Duo_Discus
The Flying Reporter yeah, i just remembered that it was that! Thanks allot anyway though 👍
4:19 is that tug a stuka??
endstation no it’s a super munk, a modified Dehavilland chipmunk with a better engine
When are you going to get a commission from the BBC, Jon? Great video very professional, thank you.
I don't have the looks!
You should try a winch launch
I was a little disappointed we couldn't do that....owing to cross wind.
The Flying Reporter That's a shame. I've done a winch launch twice and it's certainly an exhilarating experience. Definitely worth a try
I'm a glider pilot but i prefer powerd. More freedom to go where you want
They're different ball games...great respect for the gliders now after experiencing this.
Clearly you couldn't thermal very well... 😂
@@olliepackman199 clearly you cant go from southern England to north of Scotland in 2.5 hours in a 50.1 glider, you stupid boy.
@@peanuts2105 I'm clearly joking. Jeese.
Sounds like it could all be potential carnage..
Did anybody see any crop circles?
50 shades of grey brought me here😂😂
You should absolutely try gliding with a tow launch! Up to 2000ft in seconds!