Introductory Flight
The Northwest Soaring club invites you to experience the thrills, excitement, and beauty of silent flight over Lakes Mitchell and Cadillac, the City of Cadillac, and nearby rolling countryside of Northwestern Lower Michigan. Our licensed pilots will help you enjoy the majesty of flying in a sailplane.
Important- click here to read the release you will need to sign before your flight
Introductory Flight Considerations
What’s the cost, and how long will my flight last?
The cost for an Introductory Flight is $195.
The entire experience from entering to exiting the glider lasts about 45 minutes. The time from when the glider begins its takeoff roll behind the towplane until it stops upon landing is about 25 minutes. However, every flight is dependent upon what’s going on in the air around the airport. A flight might be a little shorter, or if there are thermals (rising columns of warm air), your pilot may treat you to an extended “soaring” flight. Fun!
What is your passenger weight limit?
We have a strict weight limit of 242 lbs for a passenger.
What’s the schedule like when I arrive?
Although we do our best to stay on schedule, flying gliders is dependent upon many factors, especially in an all-volunteer club. Please understand that your scheduled flight time is approximate and you may be visiting with us for awhile before you fly.
We don’t have a minimum age limit. However, the passenger sits in the seat by themselves, so it’s critical that a child be able to understand and follow directions.
Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can sign the permission form on their behalf.
No maximum age limit! Gliding is for the young and young at heart.
Yes, it’s the only way we conduct Introductory Flights. Use the “Book A Flight” button at the top the page to schedule your flight.
Should a deposit be given at the time of booking?
That’s not necessary. You may pay by cash or credit card at the field when you take your Introductory Flight.
How do we find you at the airport?
The “Intro Flight” page on this website has detailed directions and a map.
Do I need to dress for colder temperatures?
Just dress as you would for any outdoor activity on the day you fly. The temperature at 3,000’ above the field, inside the glider, isn’t much different than on the ground.
What if I’m afraid of heights?
Many of us pilots have a fear of heights, but don’t experience this sensation when flying. The reason is because we are inside of an aircraft that will gently carry us back to where we started with no sensation of falling. Most likely, this will be the same for you as well.
The Northwest Soaring Club operates from the Wexford County Airport (KCAD) on Boon Rd (34 Rd) in Cadillac. We fly off of the grass Runway 18/36. https://maps.google.com/maps?q=8040%2034%20rd&t=m&z=13&output=embed&iwloc=near
As you approach the airport, you will see the gliding operation on the south side of Boon road. Pull in to the small turnaround area shown in the image below. There is a pedestrian gate where we will meet you and escort you to the picnic table to sign in for your Introductory Flight.
