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Gliding
The ATC has a very large fleet of gliders in which cadets not only have the chance to take control of the gliders, they can fly solo. We use two different gliders at the two gliding schools we go to.
The Grob Viking is a winch-launched glider. Winch launches are really exhilarating and are as good as any fairground ride in the country.
Grob Viking & Grob Vigilant
The Grob Vigilant is a powered glider. The benefit of this type of glider is that you can remain airborne for longer to complete your training.
Gliding with the ATC is broken down into two categories:
§ Gliding Induction Course (GIC)
§
Gliding Scholarship (GS)
Gliding Induction Course (GIC)
GIC has three components, each of which are a one day course. The course allows cadets of all ages to experience and understand gliding.
§ GIC 1 covers basic glider controls and is typically completed with 3 launches in a Viking or 20 minutes in a Vigilant.
§ GIC 2 takes the cadet deeper into the techniques of gliding than GIC 1. This section typically comprises of 4 Viking launches or 25 minutes in a Vigilant.
§ GIC 3 covers more advanced gliding skills and is usually covered with 5 Viking launches or 30 minutes in a Vigilant.
With the GIC under a cadets belt they can then apply for a Gliding Scholarship.
Gliding Scholarship (GS)
Once a cadet has completed GIC and has reached 16 years of age they can apply, through their Squadron Commander, for a GS. Cadets need to complete a simple medical before they can go on standby for their course.
The course is usually completed either over a number of successive weekends or at a one week course at a gliding school during the summer.
On completion of the GS the cadet is awarded their GS wings. There are 3 types of gliding wings in the ATC.
§ GS – for those cadets who have completed the GS course.
§ GS (Solo standard) – for those cadets who have completed the GS course and have shown the aptitude to take the training further and work towards going solo.
§ Advanced Gliding Training (AGT) – for those cadets who were born to fly gliders and have shown through all their courses that they have the skills, aptitude and attitude for advance gliding training. Cadets at this level will complete further solo’s and will learn soaring techniques.
