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>Gliding Scholarships
Gliding Scholarships
In the Air Training Corps, cadets can expect to go Air Experience Flying. However, you can then go on and expand your ability by completing Gliding and Flying Scholarships.
In 2008, we have had two very successful cadets undergo Glider training in the Grob Vigilant glider and progress to Solo (Silver Wings) standard. Corporal Matthew Crighton achieved Solo Wings, whilst Corporal Ryan Davies went on even further to achieve his Advanced Glider Training - Gold Wings.
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Cpl Davies 'Ready for Takeoff' |
As a gliding trainee, there is a lot of ground school and information to take in before you are even allowed near the aircraft. There are 14 chapters to learn which cover everything from the basics of handling the aircraft to the extent of certifying you to fly solo. Generally, you would have approximately two hours of ground school everyday, with an expectancy to learn the next couple of chapters at home. You have to make sure that you are prepared and alert; 10 hour days seem to drag on, especially when your up for 7 in the morning!
You were also expected to understand the radio telephony - the pilot isn't there to do that for you on your solo! Tally - Ho chaps!
Weather is often against us in England, and there are strict rules with the Vigilant. There were often long periods of time were we were "grounded" - disallowed to fly because of the poor conditions. Whether it be wind direction, speed or rain, often each candidate only had one hour a day in the aircraft.
In the bad conditions, we were allowed to take the aircraft out for a "spin" and practice our taxying skills.
When the weather clears up, flying for an hour in a 70mph aircraft can seem a very long time! The first few flights run through the basics of the aircraft, movements of control column and primary and secondary effects of the control surfaces. After this you will move onto advanced turns, stalling, approach to landing and engine failures.
With enough practice, after 8 or so flights (8 hours) you can be good enough to fly solo, were your skills will be tested and you will be pushed to the limit! If successful, when you disembark your aircraft you can finally breathe- it's over!
