Where do you start if you want to fly further from Hollister? This article outlines one way you can stretch your wings and begin to enjoy the world of cross country soaring.
Introducing an AI that automatically alerts you to the potential for great soaring conditions days in advance, so that you never miss an opportunity for a great flight. It is your personal first-alert system to great soaring weather.
Early in the fourth week of July, I saw big potential in the coming Friday. I figured I had to try to attempt 1000km, as it might be my last opportunity this season. After 8 hours in the cockpit, I had one of the most amazing flights of my life.
This year’s Panoche Gliderpalooza was a big success. We all enjoyed getting to know some newer members, and encouraged each other to expand our limits in XC soaring. Good flights and good times were had by all.
In September, Jan and I planned one of our “bucket list” trips to New Zealand. I contacted GlideOmarama, for an abbreviated personal mountain soaring adventure course. It was fantastic and I would highly recommend any glider pilot passing nearby to put it on their itinerary!
A properly-functioning transponder can greatly improve your safety on wave flights in the Bay Area.
Nine years ago, Kurt Thams posted a video he took of four BASA glider pilots playing above the Watsonville airport at 18,000’. Ever since seeing that video I had to taste that feeling. Last weekend I got my chance, and it was an experience I will never forget.
My first solo XC from ASI to Truckee on the last day of Cross-Country Camp. It was a tough day. I made some mistakes, but I also did a few things right, and it turned out to be a most rewarding and memorable experience.
This year’s Panoche Gliderpalooza was a banner year for accomplishments. Although the weather did not bestow upon us the extremely long cross country flights we have had in past Paloozas, we did manage to get out and fly all four days of the event.
Securing a glider to the ground is important, and need not be complicated. The midshipman's hitch is secure yet adjustable, and easily tied and untied, making it a great choice for a tiedown.
Saturday, March 25th offered me the opportunity to share a glider with Ramy Yanetz as my personal mentor/coach on a cross country soaring flight in the DG1000 1CH. It was truly a special day and a great start to the Spring soaring season.
The Panoche checkout this year was an amazing experience for me. Even though the soaring was terrible, I met new people, learned a whole lot, and enjoyed some amazing scenery along the way.