The Hunter Valley Gliding Club offers introductory flights to anyone who is interested in learning more about soaring. For insurance reasons, we can't call them joyflights. The difference is that you can have a go on the controls yourself on an introductory flight. It is a tremendous experience to be able to ascend using only the energy in the air without the noise and fumes of an engine.
You will fly in one of our two-seater gliders. The instructor sits in the back and you get the front seat. Both seats have a full set of flight controls so the instructor is in complete command of the flight at all times. You get a better view from the front. During your flight you will fly over coal mines, lush dairy farms and vineyards with the mountains of the Wollemi and Barrington Tops National Parks on the horizon.
Introductory flights can be purchased either via a gift voucher or paying cash on the day you fly. A $150 standard flight lasts approximately 15 minutes, depending on conditions. A $200 extended flight lasts approximately 30 minutes, depending on conditions.
We fly every weekend and public holiday, weather permitting. We prefer to fly on sunny days but will fly in any weather conditions so long as it's not raining. It is best to ring us the day you come, between 8:00 and 9:00. If you arrive between 11:00am and 4:00pm you should get a flight but we cannot guarantee a specific time. The phone number of the clubhouse is (02) 65 744 556.
The gliders are certified for a maximum passenger weight of 110kg. This cannot be exceeded, even by 1kg. There is also a minimum weight but we have extra ballast weights to make up the difference. Please do not be offended if the instructor asks you how much you weigh. Small children probably aren't going to enjoy the experience but if your kid is keen to go, we're keen to take him or her. We have had passengers over 90 years old, disabled passengers and more. If you can sit in a car, you can sit in a glider.
Please wear secure shoes; not thongs. You will need a hat and sunscreen, even on a cloudy day. The best kind of hat is one with a soft brim that goes all the way around to cover your ears and the back of your neck. A baseball hat is only just better than nothing. Ladies, you may find it awkward if you wear a tight or long skirt. The glider cockpit is quite warm so you don't need warm clothing.
The club cannot accept credit cards onsite, so please bring cash with you or purchase a gift voucher online.
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