Learn to Fly Gliders
Gliding is an accessible and affordable way to learn, whether as a hobby or as the first step on a career in aviation.
Pilot training at SOSA
SOSA has a long history of teaching pilots to fly gliders. Many SOSA pilots have gone on to achieve record-breaking cross country flights, win international competitions and pursue successful careers in aviation.
Our instructor pilots are all certified by Transport Canada and teach a curriculum built in accordance with the Soaring Association of Canada. They share a deep love of flying and volunteer their time to train the next generation of glider pilots.
We emphasize safety, progressive learning and comprehensive and ongoing development of skills to enable you to pursue your gliding goals.
What to expect
You’ll be part of a group of new students who are learning the ropes just like you. Gliding is a team sport and every club member chips in to help us all fly safely and have fun. This gives you lots of opportunities to learn more about gliding, how the club works, and to make friends.
Typical flying days for students consist of at least two training flights in a row with the same instructor. It’s possible to fly four or six flights in one day. Training flights generally last 20 min, and can extend up to 1 hour with favourable soaring conditions.
Right from the first lesson will you be able to take control of the glider. As you improve, your instructor will have you fly more and more, teaching all the required skills until you are ready to go solo.​
Regular flying opportunities
We conduct training operations 4x a week throughout the soaring season (April – October). These weekly programs ensure that you have plenty of opportunities to fly, with regular access to our volunteer instructor pilots.
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There is also the opportunity for additional ad-hoc training sessions, based on individual instructor availability.
Tuesdays
4:00PM – Sunset
Fridays
4:00PM – Sunset
Weekends
9:00AM – 6:00PM
Holidays
9:00AM – 6:00PM
The path to license
We all learn differently and, depending on how much time and energy you have, it inevitably takes some people longer than others to complete all requirements for the Transport Canada Glider Pilots License.
It is possible for committed students to complete all requirements in one year, but it is more common for it to take two. Every student is supported through the training at their own pace.
Once licensed, you are just at the beginning of your flying journey. Our Advanced Training Programs are designed to help you expand on your skills and develop as a safe and capable glider pilot.
Intro to gliding class
Pre-solo exam
First solo
Flight test
Radio operator cert.
6+ hours flying training
Cat-4 medical or above
20 solo flights
15 hours ground school
Transport Canada exam
Power Pilots
Gliding is a great way for power pilots (current or lapsed) to expand their range of flying experience, reconnect with pure “stick & rudder” flying, or take on new challenges such as competitions. As a power pilot, you may also become one of our towplane pilots – a great, cost-effective way to build up your hours.
Pilots Under 25
Gliding remains one of the most affordable ways to begin flying, whether as a hobby or as the first step along the way to a professional aviation career. Junior members at SOSA benefit from reduced membership and flying fees. Whether you are an air cadet, or come to us with no previous experience, we can get you started.
Women Pilots
We’re a friendly and supportive club that celebrates diversity and inclusion. We have women flying members and students from many backgrounds. We encourage our women pilots to explore the range of bursaries available to help support their flying aspirations.