Recently we had three of our solo pilots all converting to new glider types on the same day. Converting to a new glider is an exciting step in your gliding journey, so we spoke to each pilot about how their conversion went.
Olivia: K21 to Junior
Olivia converted from the K21 two-seat glider to the single-seat Junior glider. Olivia said that the transition felt like one of the biggest challenges since she started flying, going from a two-seater training glider, to a single seat for the first time. “It was very daunting at first, but being so comfortable in the K21, having built up many solo flights along with encouragement from my instructor, I was really excited to fly the single seater. I am now looking forward to many more flights in it and the freedom that comes with flying a single seater”
Carter: Junior to Discus
Carter converted from the club Junior to the Discus. This was an exciting step in Carters journey, as it meant he would be flying a high performance glider with retractable undercarriage for the first time. Carter went on to say “I was absolutely fascinated by the glide performance and I look forward to move into XC flight in the Discus!”
Till: Junior to Pegase
Till also converted to a new glider type, going from the SZD Junior, to the Pegase, going on to say that the Pegase is the first high-performance glider he has flown. “Moving up from the SZD Junior, it’s been an exciting challenge to get to grips with the Pegase’s improved glide ratio, retractable undercarriage, and overall handling. It’s a noticeable step up in performance and complexity, but also incredibly rewarding. On just my second flight, I stayed airborne for 3 hours and 30 minutes – my longest flight yet and a real highlight in my gliding journey”
