Disabled Gliding

Gliding is a form of flying that is ideally suited to those with disabilities or who have limited mobility. The medical requirements for flying solo are the same as those for driving a car. A useful guide to the impact of specific medical conditions on the abililty to fly can be found on the British Disabled Flying Association's (BDFA) web site at www.bdfa.net/factsheet.htm

A number of clubs have two seater gliders that have been specially adapted for hands-only operation and, once in the air, disabled pilots can fly (and compete - gliding is a competitive sport) on a level playing field with able bodied pilots. Gliding is probably the purest form of flying and it’s one of the cheapest as well!

Hands-only pilots will need well co-ordinated and reasonably strong arms if they wish to take full control of the aircraft. But that doesn't of course mean that those with little or no strength in their hands cannot enjoy the challenge of flight, along with a safety pilot.

Clubs with Facilities for the Disabled

Click on the club name for more details

Devon & Somerset GC
Fenland GC
Herefordshire GC
Lasham Gliding Society
Norfolk GC
Shalbourne Soaring Society
Shenington GC
Stratford-on-Avon GC
Scottish Gliding Centre (see also Walking on Air below)
Ulster GC
Wolds GC

Links

British Disabled Flying Association
www.bdfa.net
The BDFA provides aviation opportunities for disabled people.

Walking on Air
www.walkingonair.org.uk
A charity aimed at providing a unique sporting opportunity for wheelchair users