Question 1

How do I book?

Accepted Answer

We appreciate many of our vouchers are bought as gifts.  Text us (07397045353) your name and voucher # and we'll send you the currently available dates to book.  You need to book before turning up please.

Question 2

I'm booked to fly Friday.  Will it go ahead?

Accepted Answer

Please check your messages before travelling to the airfield in case we've had to cancel e.g. because of bad weather.  Once booked, we use the no news is good news protocol, so we don’t contact you to confirm your booking, only if we have to cancel.  No need to contact us.

Question 3

When can I fly?

Accepted Answer

We fly almost all of our experiences, trial lessons, tasters Wednesdays-Fridays, and all our courses on Fridays March until October, with only a very limited number of weekend slots.

Club members including temporary members fly all year round Wednesdays and weekends, and some other days e.g. flying weeks.

Question 4

Am I too heavy or big / light or small?

Accepted Answer

Maximum pilot weight is 103kg.  If you're taller than 190cm you may not fit.  If you're light or small you may have to fly from the rear seat.

Question 5

Am I too old or young?  Am I healthy enough?

Accepted Answer

Children need to be old enough to follow instructions.  In general, we'd recommend being at least about 12 years old before having a first flight because children learn fast and can fly solo (after lots of training of course) for the first time when they're 14 years old.

There is no maximum age, although getting in and out of a glider is similar to getting in and out of the bath, so requires some degree of mobility.

There is a health information sheet you are required to read before flying.  If you're in any doubt, please let your pilot know in confidence of any concerns.

Question 6

What time should I arrive?

Accepted Answer

We gave you a time when you booked.  Ideally, arrive 30 minutes before to allow you to get your car safely parked, and paperwork all completed.

Question 7

Where do I go on the day of my experience?

Accepted Answer

The address is:

Rattlesden Gliding Club
Near Felsham
Bury-St-Edmunds
Suffolk IP30 0PT (use for GPS)

The what3words app is brilliant and shows you exactly where: ///banter.oddly.helpfully

Question 8

What should I wear when I come to fly?

Accepted Answer

Wear what you'd wear for a gentle walk.  Flat shoes not heals.  Trousers not skirt.  Sunglasses and a hat are good.  Airfields can be cold places in the winter.  If you're taking up your trial membership, bring a packed lunch.

Question 9

Can I leave my child with you?

Accepted Answer

Sorry, no.

Question 10

Can I upgrade my voucher, e.g. from Taster to Experience?

Accepted Answer

Yes, please text or call us.  You just pay the difference in cost.

Question 11

Why is flying as a gliding club member so inexpensive?

Accepted Answer

We're a club, not a business.  Nobody gets paid.  Everybody volunteers.  You're expected to normally come for the whole day when you take up your temporary membership or join as a full member.  When not flying, you'll help others.

Don't worry, for your Experience, Trial Lesson, etc you just come for your flight.

Question 12

How long will my Experience take?

Accepted Answer

We recommend allowing at least two-three hours from your booked time.  This allows for dodging summer showers, waiting for the previous flight to land, etc.  You'll normally be done in an hour.

If you take up your trial membership, come for the whole day, starting 9am.

Question 13

What's the most popular way of having a first flight?

Accepted Answer

An Experience.

Question 14

I loved it!  How do I join the club?

Accepted Answer

Text/email/call 07397 045353

Frequently asked questions