Learn about Gliding at Worcester Airfield

The Cape Gliding Club at Worcester airfield runs five-day beginners' gliding-experience courses in April and September each year. Watch this space for details or "Contact us".

Gliding as a sport (as opposed to hang-gliding) began in the 1920’s and is one of the safest air sports. The hands-on course is designed for both novices as well as any powered aircraft pilots who are keen to enter the world of un-powered soaring flight. Space exists for up to 10 students who will stay at or nearby the airfield for the duration of the course. Tuition will be given by qualified gliding instructors in safe, two-seater, German Schleicher 17 metre wingspan gliders. All these gliders have dual controls and no previous flying experience or special equipment is required in order to participate. Gliding is something that anyone can participate in, women and men, old and young. On the ground however, gliders require to be manoeuvred by hand, so you are advised that there is a lot of strenuous physical work involved on these courses. Please take note of this!

Schleicher Ka13 two seater trainer at Worcester

Worcester airfield is situated in the middle of the Breede River valley, 2km outside the town of Worcester. Course students will be encouraged to camp at the airfield, where all the necessary facilities are available, including a swimming pool. There is also a bunkhouse that can accommodate four people. The course includes daily breakfast, lunch and supper. Breakfast and supper will be served in the clubhouse, a light lunch will be provided on the runway so as not to disrupt flying. An instructional lecture will be given after supper on most evenings.

The cost of the course has two parts; one is deposit of R1650.00 which covers meals, a comprehensive gliding reference manual, airfield facilities and mandatory affiliation to the Soaring Society of South Africa. The second part is the actual cost of time airborne, based on the standard Cape Gliding Club flying rates, which can be studied here. As a rough guide, a student having 15 flights spread over the five day period will incur approximately R4500.00 in flying charges. There is no additional cost for the actual instruction. Students who wish to carry on their training by joining the club will receive a discount on the normal entrance amount. The course is too short for participants to progress to solo (unless they have prior flight experience) but all participants will receive a certificate from the club.

September 2005 Course Participants

For more information on the course, or on gliding in general, contact:
Kevin Mitchell on 083 616 6004