Soaring Instruction & Glider Rentals

For Ab-initio (New) Students and Holders of Private Pilot Licenses

Want to learn how to fly gliders? Learning to fly is a rewarding experience. The actual mechanics of learning to fly is easy, the challenge lies in utilizing your skills, knowledge, senses and judgement to continually analyze the terrain and weather conditions in order to stay aloft, gain altitude and fly further distances. At Pemberton Soaring Centre, the scenery and soaring conditions are unbeatable and our staff are trained in giving our clients safe high quality flight and ground training. No previous aviation experience is necessary. Lessons are scheduled at your convenience. Keep in mind that the closer together the lessons are, the easier it is to build on the knowledge gained from previous lessons, and the faster you will learn.

We operate 7 days a week from April through to October, giving a lot of our clients the opportunity to fly during the week when it’s less busy, and the ability for those who wish to do so to devote one or two weeks to flying, making their training time lessen, and therefore saving money.

Pemberton is an ideal location for learning to fly gliders. We operate from a 4,000-foot runway, which is located at the base of a 8,600’ mountain. The incredible landscape in Pemberton produces thermal, ridge and sometimes wave types of lift. Long soaring flights are common in Pemberton, there have been flights to Squamish, Lillooet, Salmon Arm (don’t forget these flights were obtained with motorless planes!).

Learn about Glider Pilot Training Requirements or Visitor Pilot Information.

EQUIPMENT

Lessons are conducted in two L-23 Blaniks, which are a two-person tandem-seat all-metal sailplanes.

The L-23’s are towed aloft by a 180 HP Citabria.

ABOUT PEMBERTON & WHISTLER

Camping is available at the airport for pilots and training pilots, with Pemberton Soaring Center's shower and washroom facilities available. There are numerous B&B’s, a hotel and other camping sites available as well. Check out Whistler/Pemberton accommodation & activities options as there are a multitude of other activities to do while in the area.

When not flying, the atmosphere on the ground is almost as enjoyable as flying itself. Pilots new and old love to share their stories of flight - this is where the term “hangar flying” comes from, and is enjoyed by all.

GLIDER RENTALS & TRAINING

OTHER RESOURCES

Beautiful scenic tours and great hosts - thanks for the flight and the hospitality
Byron Stanley, Vancouver

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