Take an Introductory Ride in a two-place sailplane!
We'll show you a flying experience like nothing else. Riding in a sailplane (or glider, if you prefer) is the purest form of flying. You'll be sitting in the front seat of our glider with your pilot flying from the rear seat behind you. The view will be breathtaking as you are towed to altitude behind one of our towplanes.
Once you have reached your release altitude, your pilot will release the glider from the tow rope by pulling a lever, and you will find yourself in a motorless, silent flight.
Now, you are gently floating through the air, with plenty of time to take in the view. In a sailplane's small, quiet setting, you will experience the true freedom of the skies!
We offer an introductory soaring experience flight. The flight's altitude and duration will depend on the weather and other factors. Usually, a ride lasts approximately 20 to 25 minutes, but can be extended if favorable conditions exist. Gift certificates are available at the field or by emailing fly@wvsc.org . Calling ahead at (503) 647-0913 is encouraged to find details of the day's operation, but feel free to drop in.
Introduction to Soaring Glider Ride - $200. The ride certificate is good for 3 years!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can more than one person go at a time?
Not with our current glider fleet. The gliders we use for rides are two-place glider and one place is needed for the pilot.
Are there age, weight or height limits?
Yes. Children must be over 10 years old, and should be tall enough to see out of the window. People over six feet may have trouble fitting into the passenger compartment. The weight limit includes the pilot and passenger and varies with each glider. We will ask you to give an estimate of your weight so that we can adjust the ballast to ensure your safety. Passengers from about 90 pounds to 220 pounds can be accommodated. Guests are encouraged to bring a camera (strap required) and sunglasses. The view from the glider is something special and we want to you take full advantage of it.
Is it safe?
After more than 20 years, we have a 100% safety record for rides. The pilot is an FAA certified Commercial glider pilot. There are risks associated with all aviation activities, and you are agreeing to assume these risks by taking a ride with us.
Can I fly the GLIDER?
If you ask, most likely the pilot will let you take the controls and get a feel for flying the glider.
What is the best time to come out?
Mid morning (10:30AM-12:00) is the least busy, but we can usually accommodate people at anytime during the day.
Do I need to call ahead?
We are a volunteer organization. Our usual flight days are Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and Sundays from late April to around October. Rides are very popular for guests and potential new pilots to experience glider flying. We do not take reservations, so rides are on a first-come, first-served basis. We strongly recommend visitors call the field after 9:30 or 10:00AM on the day they plan to come for a ride to ensure the operation is running.
How much does it cost? Do you accept credit cards?
Our standard ride costs $200. Cash, checks, credit cards, and PayPal (see below) are all accepted.
How does a glider stay aloft?
When favorable conditions exist, the pilot uses updrafts called thermals to gain height.
How can I purchase a gift certificate?
If you prefer to purchase a gift certificate in advance or as a present for someone, we can accept a check or a Visa. Checks should be mailed to the address shown at the bottom of the page. There is no expiration date on the gift certificate. It can be redeemed at any time during the season, which generally runs from mid-April to late October.
If you wish the gift certificate to be shipped to a separate address, please include that address in the "Add Special Instructions to Merchant" or “Ship To” section on the PayPal site. Gift Certificates will be mailed, and should arrive within 3 business days.
For more information, email Gift.Certificates@WVSC.ORG or call (503) 647-0913, and someone will get back to you shortly.
Introduction to Soaring Glider Ride - $180, Prices increase in 2026. Ride certificate is good for 3 years!
Does WVSC Accept other organizations Gift Certificates?
Other than the gift certificates that we issue, the only gift certificate that WVSC can accept from another organization is the FAST (Fly A Sailplane Today) certificate from the Soaring Society of America (SSA). Contact our SSA representative for more information by emailing SSA.Representative@wvsc.org.