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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do we know if the weather is permitting?We will probably not be offering rides if any of the following conditions exist:
Up to the minute weather conditions at Somerset Airport are available from the "Automatic Weather Observation Station" at the airport by dialing 908-722-2139. We also will "flip" our voice mail to say "we are not flying today" if
unfavorable conditions exist. How many can go in a glider ride at once?The gliders are two place aircraft with tandem seating (one in front
and one in back). The passenger sits in front, with the view and the pilot
sits behind. FAA regulations limit the passenger weight to 235 lbs. Maximum. What is the difference between gliding and soaring?They are actually the same. The FAA calls powerless aircraft "gliders"
and the license a "glider rating". In the sport we call it "soaring",
because there is more to it then just gliding to the ground. The aircraft
are called "sailplanes" because, they are powered by air currents. Sailplanes
(aka gliders) stay aloft, sometimes for hours at a time, using thermals,
rising air from the wind against a hill, or waves in the air like the
waves in the ocean. Is soaring safe?Soaring, using the aircraft we operate is very safe. The speed of the
glider is low , and they don't carry fuel. It is also so safe that the
FAA permits solo flight for children as young as 14 years old, after proper
training and experience. What should I do to prepare for my flight?Not much really. It is cooler at altitude then on the ground so a jacket
may be required in the spring and fall. The sun is brighter at altitude,
so sunglasses and a hat with a brim are always a good idea. Bring your
camera. We will be glad to take a photo of you in the glider, and take
pictures from the glider while flying. Telephoto lenses are best for photos
from the air. Be sure you make a potty stop at the airport office prior
to your flight because there aren't any gas stations in the sky. I enjoyed my first flight, where do I go from here?We offer flight instruction leading to a student license, and on to a
private license. I'm already a private pilot, can I fly gliders?Obtaining a glider rating add on requires flight and ground instruction
to allow solo, then at least 10 solo flights (20 for comm.) When the solos
are completed, you require at least three prep flights prior to the check
ride. The check ride is an oral and a flight test. A written is not required. Where can I learn more?Visit the Soaring Society of America website. |
 Come and experience your first flight with us! Get a 10% discount on a "Discover Flying" one hour introductory lesson! Contact us for details and booking.  
  Plan to visit us on special event days. We have a lot of plans in mind for community and other events! Click here to sign up and stay informed. |