Gliding

If you are interested in joining us read our page and click --> here <--  to be taken to our linktree.

If you have bought a membership and wish to join our main communication channel please follow the instructions on the linktree by tapping on the 'How to Join the UWE Gliding Whatsapp' Bar.

We'd love to see you in the skies with us!

What is Gliding ?

Gliding is a form of aerial sport, flying unpowered aircraft with incredible efficiency. We will teach you how to soar up to great heights, perhaps even fly with your friends or a friendly flock of birds.

Is it safe ?

Yes! Our fleet is composed of some of the sturdiest aircraft available, and you will be flying with an instructor until you have demonstrated a suitable level of competence to be allowed to fly solo. Gliders are inspected by an experienced pilot every morning before flight to ensure there safety. Also, we wear parachutes and are briefed for all eventualities, so even if something unexpected happens, you’ll know exactly what to do. Any questions just ask your instructor, they are there to help you learn!

How do gliders fly?

Gliders are unpowered aircraft (usually!). This obviously means that we cannot get airborne by ourselves. To get airborne, there are three options, the third option won't usually be used by us:

1. The Winch - A 350hp V8 driving a mile of rope kiting you skywards. A real experience, expect a 0-60 of around 2s and a 45 degree climb to 1200ft (or more!) in less than a minute!
2. Aerotow  - A light, powerful aircraft also called a tug that will take off with you hooked onto its tail with a cable. You climb slower but you can pay more to go as high as you like!
3. Self-Launching Motor Gliders (SLMGs) and Touring Motor Gliders (TMGs) - SLMGs have a retractable engines and propellers making them able to launch independently not needing a winch or aerotow. TMGs have a fixed engine and propellor that look more like a light aircraft however have a much larger glide ratio making them gliders.

Where do we fly ?

When you pay for a membership (on the right-hand side) you become part of the Cotswold Gliding Club (CGC) at the airfield known as Aston Down. It is popular for it's large 1,500-meter main runway and strong thermal soaring conditions. The club owns a fleet of modern two-seater training gliders accessible to you as soon as you join such as Ka21's and a Ka13 - this does not include the two gliders that we own and get to use without paying soaring fees.

What are launch fees and soaring fees ?

Launch fees are the same for all gliders it only depends on what method of launch you are using (Winch or Tow). As students we pay a launch fee of £13 for every take off that results in 5 minutes of airtime, anything under 5 minutes will be reduced to £9. 

Soaring fees are what you are charged per minute in the CGC club gliders - This is usually between 30p-50p a minute - this does not apply to our own gliders. 

Is it expensive ?

No! It’s far more affordable than you’d expect. If you bought a membership independently with the Cotswold Gliding Club you will be paying around £500 a year! Our membership is £80 a year and this gives you access to the exact same things.

As a student you can get airborne for as little as £13, when flying in our UWE owned gliders. Our fleet consists of a Ka13 two-seater glider affectionately known as "Winnie" and a Ka8 single-seater glider called "JOB". However if you do want to fly CGC club aircraft they cost £30 per hour + the £13 lauch cost.

You do not get charged extra for instruction as the club is run by volunteers!

Do you go on trips or compete in competitions ?

Of course! We plan trips to attend national gliding events such as the Junior Gliding Winter Series (Denbigh), the yearly inter-university competition (Inter-unis), and occasionally gliding competitions in the summer, the biggest most relevant one being the Junior Gliding Competition, held only for pilots aged 13-25 years old.

During these events, you will experience great socials, a new location, new ways of flying and soaring, travel and meet lots of friends from all over the country.

Will I like it ?

If you like fast cars, roller coasters, or have experienced and liked powered flight, you’ll love it! Gliding can be a peaceful sport but it can also be a high-pace, high-energy one. Some of our host club’s ex-military pilots describe it as ‘the closest thing to flying Fighter Jets, outside of flying Fighter Jets’.

Can I fly on my own ?

Absolutely, when you pass all the tests... We hope all of our pilots aim is to go solo. Our instructors will work with you through a list of exercises to build you to the level you need to be at. If you pass the theory exam and flying skills test then you may become a licensed pilot, your progress beyond that is limitless!

Community is a massive aspect of gliding and attending these events is the best way to be a part of it, we all love it!

Your 2026/27 Gliding Committee:

President: Jack Boyns

Vice-President: Erica Bemand

Treasurer: Gabrielle Tison

Events and Fundraising: Libby Hudson

Social Media: William Ruddock

Equipment and Safety: Joseph Lever

Equality and Participation: Prarthana (Pray) Hortik

If you’re still not convinced, check out the Honourable Company of Air Pilots, British Women’s Pilots Association, and other such organisations who offer scholarships to young individuals! As a junior, and especially if you are a woman, there are lots of opportunities for aspiring pilots to have their progress partially or fully funded.