What's involved
Like most gliding clubs, SOSA is a non-profit organization that runs on the passion and selflessness of its members. Everyone from tow pilot to timekeeper serves on a voluntary basis and all members give their time to help SOSA function smoothly and safely.
All of the flying instruction at SOSA is free, keeping the overall cost of your flying training down. As a result new members are expected to pitch in and help around the club. This shared responsibility makes for a great team spirit at the flight line and around the club.
Complete monthly duty shifts at the flight line
Help host a summer social/BBQ
Attend the Annual General Meeting
Help with Spring/Fall Work Weekends
Volunteer your skills or time on a club project
Volunteer to serve on the Board of Directors
Membership Fee
Initiation Fee
Soaring Association of Canada Fee
Glider Rental
Aerotow / Winch Launch Costs
Hangarage & Camping Fees (if applicable)
How much does it cost?
Compared to power flying, gliding is relatively inexpensive. As a club member you can rent club gliders at just $1 per minute. It’s a great way to enjoy solo flying without owning your own aircraft. An aerotow launch costs around $45 and instruction is free.
Based on the most common rental package chosen and the average number of flights required to get to solo, committed adult members typically spend around $3,500 in their first year as student pilots. Junior members (under 25) have access to discounted rates and youth bursaries. They typically spend $2,000-$2,500 in their first year as student pilots.
New student waitlist
To ensure that new members joining SOSA have access to the resources they need to be successful, we have implemented a new student waitlist. There are a limited number of slots available each spring for individuals with no prior flying experience. This helps to keep an effective instructor to student ratio and ensures that the club is able to offer consistent and meaningful progress to those learning to fly.
If you're interested in joining, please complete the request form on this page. We will contact you as soon as a spot becomes available.