CAN MORE THAN ONE PERSON GO AT A TIME?
Not with our current glider fleet. The gliders we use for rides are two-place gliders and one place is needed for the pilot.
ARE THERE AGE, WEIGHT OR HEIGHT LIMITS?
Yes. Children must be over 10 years old and should be tall enough to see out of the window. Individuals over six feet may have trouble fitting into the passenger compartment. The weight limit includes the pilot and passenger and varies with each glider. We will ask you to give an estimate of your weight so that we can adjust the ballast to ensure your safety. Passengers from about 90 pounds to 220 pounds can be accommodated. Guests are encouraged to bring a camera and sunglasses. The view from the glider is something special and we want to you take full advantage of it.
IS IT SAFE?
After more than 20 years, we have a 100% safety record for rides. The pilot is an FAA certified Commercial glider pilot. There are risks associated with all aviation activities, and you are agreeing to assume these risks by taking a ride with us.
CAN I FLY THE GLIDER?
If you ask, most likely the pilot will let you take the controls and get a feel for flying the glider.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO COME OUT?
Mid morning (10:30AM-12:00) is the least busy, but we can usually accommodate people at anytime during the day.
DO I NEED TO CALL AHEAD?
We are a volunteer operation. Our regular field schedule is to fly Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and Sundays from the end of April to about October. Rides are a very popular way for guests and possible new pilots to get a taste of glider flight. We do not make reservations, so rides are on a first come, first served basis. We strongly encourage visitors to call the field after 9:30 or 10:00AM on the day you plan to go for a ride, just to make sure the operation is up and running.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? DO YOU ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS?
Our standard ride costs $180. Cash, checks, credit cards, and PayPal (see below) are all accepted.
HOW DOES A GLIDER STAY ALOFT?
When favorable conditions exist, the pilot uses updrafts called thermals to gain height.
HOW CAN I PURCHASE A GIFT CERTIFICATE?
If you prefer to purchase a gift certificate in advance, or as a gift for someone, we can take check or visa as payment. Checks can be mailed to the address shown at the bottom of the page (no address listed-however, the best way to purchase a GC is on the website). There is no expiration date on the gift certificate (Gift Certificates are valid for three years from the date of issue). It can be redeemed anytime during the season which is generally from mid-April to late October. If you wish the gift certificate to be shipped to a separate address, please include that address in the "Add Special Instructions to Merchant" or “Ship To” section on the PayPal site. Gift Certificates will be mailed and should arrive within 3 business days. For more information, email Gift.Certificates@WVSC.ORG or call (503) 647-0913, and someone will get back to you shortly.
Introduction to Soaring Glider Ride - $180.00