Discovering Arizona - Soar Over Scenic Arizona!

Gliding is a recreational activity and competitive sport in which pilots fly un-powered aircraft known as gliders or sailplanes. Properly, the term gliding refers to descending flight of a heavier-than-air craft, whereas soaring is the correct term to use when the craft gains altitude or speed from rising air.

When the soaring conditions are good enough, experienced pilots can fly hundreds of miles before returning home. However, if the weather deteriorates, they may need to make a forced landing, also known as "landing out", but motorglider pilots can avoid this by starting an engine.

While many glider pilots merely enjoy the sense of achievement, some competitive pilots fly in races around pre-defined courses. These competitions test the pilots' abilities to make best use of local weather conditions as well as their flying skills. Local and national competitions are organized in many countries and there are also biennial World Gliding Championships.

Powered tow aircraft and winches are the two most common means of launching gliders. These and other methods (apart from self-launching motor-gliders) require assistance from other participants. Gliding clubs have thus been established to share airfields and equipment, train new pilots and maintain high safety standards.

Arizona is a spectacular place to stay aloft as glider pilot search out thermals or columns of hot air rising that allows a glider to ride these thermals to continually gain altitude. Arizona also affords vast space and incredible clearity to enjoy its beautiful landscapes from high above.

Call one of the centers and take a introductory flight - one that you’ll never forget!