Gliding is a recreational activity and competitive air sport [1] in which pilots fly unpowered aircraft known as gliders or sailplanes using naturally occurring currents of rising air in the atmosphere …

gliding, flight in an unpowered heavier-than-air craft. Any engineless aircraft, from the simplest hang glider to a space shuttle on its return flight to the Earth, is a glider. The glider is powered …

Jul 28, 2022 · The heat from the ground warms the surrounding air, which causes the air to rise. Rising pockets of hot air are called thermals. Large gliding birds, such as owls and hawks, are …

The sport is called “soaring” and to pilot as well as spectator, it has universal appeal. The terms gliding and soaring are used interchangeably. There are many soaring sites in the United States.

Jul 9, 2025 · In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to get started with gliding—from understanding what gliding is, the types of gliders available, how to take your …

Jul 19, 2024 · Gliding involves perfect control inputs and the ability to read air currents. Gliding competitions test skills in aerodynamics, navigation, and reading weather patterns. Gliding …

Gliding, or soaring as it is sometimes called, encompasses motorless flight in aircraft. Once airborne gilders use lift to gain altitude and stay aloft, they are launched by power plane, winch …

Feb 7, 2020 · Gliding exploits the same naturally occurring currents of air that birds have used for millions of years. Using these invisible currents, known as ‘lift’, you can soar to great heights …

When done in gliders (sailplanes), the sport is known as gliding and sometimes as soaring. For foot-launched aircraft, it is known as hang gliding and paragliding. Radio-controlled gliders …

Mar 13, 2025 · Gliding involves engineless aircraft that move by use of raising air known as thermals, which are cause by the sun heating the ground which in turn heats the air above it; …