GWSS - Glider ride (cockpit view)
Today, I got to soar in a high performance sailplane with an FAA Certificated Commercial Instructor. We were aerotowed up to 6500ft above sea level. There's also a mile high tow (5280ft) to almost 9000ft above sea level. Bill, my instructor, flew the sailplane while on tow. He offered to let me fly the aircraft once we were released from the tow plane but, I declined because I wanted to video record the experience so that anyone interested in taking a flight can get an idea of what they can expect. What you can expect is freedom, exhilaration, peace, and quiet, and a fantastic eagle's eye view of tree lines running along mountain ridges, long stretches of state highway, rural towns, farm lands, and the vast expanse of the valley floor beneath you. I have a minor phobia about heights. But, I felt completely safe and secured. Many modern sailplanes have a glide ratio of 40:1. That's a far higher ratio then any commercial powered aircraft or even a paraglider. The school is a family run business, operated by Yvonne and her grandfather. I believe they have been in operations since 1960. If you're in the neighborhood, drop by and say hi to the crew. They're really nice people too. Great Western Soaring School 32810 165th Street East #2A Llano, CA 93544 (661) 944-9449 Fax: (661) 944-4460 email: soaring@qnet.com
Great Western Soaring school glider sailplane wing over Llano Crystal Aire California moutains scenic freedom Peace Want Love
