The intro flight is a 20 – 30 minute glider flight designed to allow a person to experience the magic of motorless flight. This flight may be your first step in deciding if you want to pursue you glider pilots license, or simply to satisfy your dream of flying in an aircraft without an engine.
The VSA offers introductory flights on a first come first served basis from our base of operations at the Hope Airport. The VSA flies on all weekends and stat holidays from April to the end of October weather permitting. For rates please see our Fees page. Gift Certificates are available - please contact us for more information.
If you are interested in taking an introductory flight, all you have to do is come to the Hope Airport on any weekend. Pick a pleasant day and try to arrive at the airfield by 11:00 AM.
For our introductory flights the passenger rides in the front seat of the 2 seat glider and the pilot flies the glider from the back seat. The flight will last approximately 20 minutes and can be up to 30 minutes if the soaring conditions are such that the pilot can utilize sources of lift to stay aloft. At Hope we rely mainly on ridge lift to gain altitude and stay aloft. The glider is towed up to approximately 3000 feet above the ground with a tow plane at which point the glider releases.
The pilot will brief you on the various stages of the flight and explain the operation of the various controls and instruments in the glider. Feel free to ask questions. You are also encouraged to take your camera along to take pictures or to have a friend use your camera to take pictures from the ground.
The VSA is an all volunteer organization that has approximately 65 active flying members. The VSA owns a fleet of 2 tow planes and 7 gliders and is based at the Hope airport.
Our system of flying for all members and guests is first come, first served. We encourage our guests to arrive at the airfield before 11:00 am. On busy days there may be many guests who want introductory flights and if you arrive too late you may have to wait a few hours for a flight. In general if you arrive at the airfield before 11:00 am we can get you up for the flight in a reasonable period of time.
The VSA has a fully equipped club house on the airport with washrooms, lounge, kitchen and picnic tables. Guests are welcome to use these facilities during your visit. We encourage guests to bring a hat, sun screen and to keep well hydrated, especially during the summer months. Bring you lunch and enjoy your day at Hope Airport. If you have any questions please contact us. Additional information is available in our brochure.
Please Note: Maximum permitted passenger weight is 240 lbs