Taking Flight: Highlights from the 2025 Gliding to Solo Course

The Air League’s Gliding to Solo Course has once again wrapped up with resounding success, marking two weeks of intensive training, camaraderie and personal triumphs. Despite a few weather-related delays, the atmosphere remained upbeat and collaborative, with participants forming strong bonds and supporting each other through every stage of their journey.

Delivered in partnership with the London Gliding Club, the Gliding to Solo Course is designed to take complete beginners through a structured programme of ground school theory and practical flight experience, culminating in their first solo flight in a glider. This year, nine aspiring aviators took part, with sponsorship provided by Boeing, the Robert Kronfeld Fund, and the Battle of Britain Fund.

Throughout the course, participants progressed from their very first aerotow and winch launches to confidently flying full circuits with minimal instructor input. They learned essential flight principles such as speed control, stall recovery and approach techniques, while also gaining hands-on experience in the control tower, managing radio communications and logging flight data.

Individual journeys reflected the depth and diversity of the experience. One participant completed a 53-minute soaring flight using thermals to gain altitude, an extraordinary achievement. Others reached personal milestones such as virtual solo flights, advanced stall recovery and circuit planning under challenging weather conditions. From mastering air brake control to co-piloting motor gliders and even experiencing aerobatics, the course offered a rich variety of learning moments. Many participants also praised the camaraderie and mentorship they received, noting how the supportive environment helped them grow both technically and personally.