The Gliderport is located near the Disney attractions in Orlando, and offers rides as well as instruction. New pilots will need 20 flights with an instructor, 20 solo flights, and passing scores on the FAA written test and check ride. The Gliderport has a certified FAA examiner on staff.
The Philadelphia Glider Council is a nonproft membership-owned group founded in 1941. PGC members range from ages 13 to 65, although solo flight is not allowed until age 14. The PGC offers orientation flights for $75 and prides itself on inexpensive training -- flight students only pay yearly membership dues, which range from $555 to $575, and tow fees. Scholarships are also available for full-time students.
This Bend, Oregon club flies on weekends during the warmer months of the year, and touts its location for catching thermal lift above the desert and soaring over mountains. In October, flights of more than 100 miles are possible. Lesson rates are negotiated with the instructor, and students under 21 can earn credit by cleaning aircraft.
The club owns and operates the land, facilities and equipment at Owl Canyon Gliderport, located 15 miles from Fort Collins, Colorado. Pilots who aren't members can bring their planes and get tows at non-member rates. Scenic flights for the public and instruction are also offered year-round.