Flying Machine

“The major reason why gliding is looked upon as an unapproachable activity by the common man is because of lack of education. They say,necessity is the mother of invention,but unfortunately,the common Indian,even 60 years after independence is struggling for his basic needs and rights and thus does not have time for fun,” says Captain Shailesh Charbhe,station-in-charge,Gliding Club.

Established by the civil aviation ministry for the promotion of aerosports and gliding-related activities,the club currently houses four gliders,all of which are operational. The trained staff at the gliding centre is committed to a safe and memorable gliding experience for the enthusiasts. Adds Charbhe,“In most countries abroad,gliding is considered a major tourism and adventure activity. But unfortunately in India,we have constantly underestimated the potential that exists in the natural diversity and bounty of this beautiful nation. It is the same thought process that is inculcated in the youth of the country who do not have enough exposure to be able to explore new avenues of adventure,tourism and fun activities. We at the club are committed to promote gliding as a major adventure activity in and around Pune.”

The basic requirements for the development of gliding as a sport are clear skies,moderate weather and harmless wind conditions. India is also blessed to have eight-month long gliding season that starts post monsoon and continues till mid June every year.

Also,besides the thrill involved in reaching a higher altitude within a short span of time and that too,gliding serves as a major tool for various other activities such as- aerial photography and exploring natural beauty with the message of environment friendliness.

The first flight
The glider can accommodate two passengers that include one pilot and one flier. Initially,the glider is pulled with a rope the other end of which is attached to a winch. After attaining a particular height,the rope is detached from the glider,post which the glider floats on the air. While the average height attained for orientation flights is 600-1200 feet above ground,up to 3000 feet is permitted by the flying authorities

Gliding club facts
Established by the Indian Gliding Association in 1953 at Fursungi,it was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru who flew at the place. It was shifted to the current location in 1956.

Who can fly
Anyone who is above 12 years of age can fly for the fun or orientation flights. The club,besides the fun flights also offers trainings for gliding pilots the eligibility criteria for which is minimum 10th pass,with age being more than 16 years. Fitness needs to be certified by DGCA as medical class II. The training can spread over two to six months. According to Charbhe,“We conduct the classes from Monday to Thursday starting 11.30 am till sunset. In a budget of Rs 25-30,000,one can be a licensed gliding pilot.”