Try Gliding
It's Time to fly
Have you ever dreamed of flying? Join over 20,000 people who have safely experienced an introductory flight at York Soaring since 1961.
You can either come to the glider-port or book a flight online. All flights are carried out in certified, two-seat aircraft by our experienced Transport Canada Licensed pilots. We are happy to tailor each flight to your needs so you can choose from a gentle gliding experience up to a ‘hands-on’ instructional experience. For those looking for more of an adrenaline packed experience, we offer an Aerobatic Experience ride!
Here's what you can expect
Your day at the airfield
1. Show up
Show up at the airfield about 30mins before your flight. Make your way to the clubhouse, located at the north side of the hangars, and meet your host and pilot.
2. Get briefed on the flight
Your pilot will brief you on the glider you'll be flying and will let you know what you can expect from the flight given the day's weather and outlook. The pilot will go over normal flight procedures as well as safety requirements before discussing how far you'd like to be involved in piloting the aircraft.
3. Jump in the Passenger Seat!
After the briefing, you will be escorted to one of our two-seat gliders where the your pilot will familiarize you with the controls and features of the aircraft. Our members will help you secure yourself in the front seat while your pilot will sit in the back and perform pre-flight checks to get ready for your launch.
4. The take off and landing
The flight-line crew will hook up your glider to the tow plane and following a thumbs-up from your pilot in the back, the flight-line crew will give the tow plane pilot the signal to take off! Your pilot will be doing the flying during the takeoff (launching) and landing phases of your flight. However, after the release, if you like, you can get some experience in how the aircraft is controlled.
5. the flight!
You can choose from two different types of flights: Glider Experience flight or Aerobatics Experience flight
Glider Experience
The aero-tow will take you to 3,000 feet (900 metres) above ground level. The pilot may instruct you to pull the release once at altitude at which point you will be free of the tow plane and free to explore the skies around York Soaring.
You can experience what soaring feels like and, depending on the prevailing weather conditions, you may climb to altitudes close to double your release altitude! You may also get a chance at the controls of the aircraft should time and altitude permit. The flight will last between 20 and 30 minutes.
Aerobatic Experience
The aero-tow will take you to 4,000 feet (1,200m) above the ground. At this altitude you will have ample time for experiencing the ultimate in three dimensional flight! The pilot may instruct you to release the glider from the tow plane at which point your aerobatics experience will begin!
After a brief acclimatization to the forces you can expect, the maneuvers will begin. Expect rolls, loops, lazy-eights, chandelles and more. You may also get a chance at the controls of the aircraft should time and altitude permit.