ABOUT

You have to be a pilot already, right? No! If you are aged 18-55 and show real aptitude we’ll teach you. A mixture of individuals with an interest in aviation become Volunteer Gliding Squadron Instructors – some are former cadets who have already gained their solo wings, others are ex-RAF, airline or private gliding club pilots.

Of course it’ll help if you already have flying or gliding experience, but we are more interested in developing your potential if we think you have what it takes to pass the skills you learn on to our cadets.

A FLYING START

You’ll train to exacting standards in the Viking winch-launched glider with a highly experienced RAFAC pilot.

Your progress will depend on your ability, but if you attend your Volunteer Gliding Squadron (VGS) regularly you may progress well enough to win your instructor wings within 12-18 months.

Flying is scheduled largely at weekends and during week-long camps during the Easter and summer holidays. As a volunteer you’re not paid but, once qualified, you can claim expenses for travel and subsistence.

COMMITMENT EXPECTATION

You’ll be expected to attend 3 out of 4 weekends every month. With experience you also can apply to become an SNCO or an RAFAC officer, entitling you to up to 28 days’ volunteer allowance per year.

We are one of the largest gliding organisations in the world, so when you join you become part of a very special team, whatever your ability. If you think you can inspire the next generation of high flyers then why not take the next step?

For more information, or to register your interest, please email our general account with your expression of interest and a brief overview of your experiences and qualifications.