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Introductory
Flights

Experience the pure freedom of gliding over Tasmania's beautiful Midlands.

What is an AEF?

Your First Flight
Above Tasmania

Air Experience Flights — also known as Trial Introductory Flights — are conducted in a dual-controlled training glider with a qualified instructor.

They are designed to give you a first taste of gliding and an introduction to training for anyone considering learning to fly. You will be offered the opportunity to take the controls during the flight, guided by an experienced instructor who will talk you through everything.

All Air Experience participants receive introductory/temporary membership for the activity in accordance with Gliding Australia requirements.

GFA-certified instructors
Flights from 20 minutes
No experience needed
Instructor and student in the IS-28B2 over Tunbridge

Choose Your Experience

Flight Packages

All flights are in our IS-28B2 two-seat dual-controlled glider with a qualified instructor. Prices are all-inclusive.

Standard

AEF Basic

$220per flight
  • Aerotow to approximately 3,200 ft AMSL
  • Approximately 15–25 minutes of flying
  • Pre and post-flight briefing with instructor
  • 30 day GFA membership included
  • Flight may be extended if conditions allow
  • Additional flights at member rates
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Most Popular
Premium

AEF Classic

$350per flight
  • Aerotow to approximately 5,000 ft AMSL
  • Approximately 25–35 minutes of flying
  • Pre and post-flight briefing with instructor
  • 30 day GFA membership from first flight included
  • More altitude means more time soaring on thermals
  • Additional flights at member rates
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Mile High Flight

AEF Mile High

$420per flight

The Mile High Air Experience Flight takes everything in our Deluxe flight and elevates it — literally. A higher tow means more altitude to work with, more time aloft, and a much broader view of the stunning Tasmanian Midlands stretching away beneath you. At 6,200ft, you're genuinely soaring at altitude. See the beautiful mountains and lakes, the Midlands and farmlands below, the quiet rush of air over the wings, the needle-thin horizon of the Southern Ocean on a clear day — this is gliding at its most compelling.

  • Aerotow to approximately 6,200 ft AMSL
  • Approximately 35–45 minutes of flying
  • Pre and post-flight briefing with instructor
  • 30 day GFA membership from first flight included
  • More altitude means more time soaring on thermals
  • Additional flights at member rates
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Training Package
Begin Your Journey

Learn to Fly — Starter Package

$5955 flights, all inclusive

Kick start your flying with this introductory package. You will fly in a dual-controlled glider with an experienced instructor who will guide you through the basics of glider flying. On completion you will have a real feel for what it is like to be a pilot — and can join as a full member to continue your training.

  • 5 instructor-led training flights
  • Pilot Log book provided
  • Aerotow to 3,200 ft AMSL each flight
  • Approximately 15-25 minutes per flight
  • Flights may be spread over more than one day
  • Pre and post-flight briefing with instructor
  • 30 day GFA membership from first flight included
  • All 5 flights to be completed within 30 days from first flight
  • Flights count toward Gliding Australia training outcomes
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On the Day

What to Expect

01

Pre-Flight Briefing

Your instructor will walk you through the aircraft, explain the controls, and describe what to expect during the flight. No experience is required — everything is explained clearly.

02

The Aerotow

You'll be towed aloft by our Eurofox tow aircraft to your chosen altitude — either 3,200ft, 5000ft or 6,200ft above sea level — over the beautiful Tasmanian Midlands.

03

You Take the Controls

Once released from the tow, your instructor will offer you an opportunity to take the controls if conditions are suitable. You'll be flying the glider yourself.

04

Landing & Debrief

Your instructor handles the landing and will debrief you afterwards — going over what went well and answering any questions about continuing with gliding.

Good to Know

Conditions & What to Bring

Booking & Scheduling

  • All flights will need to be booked in advance of your flight.
  • Flying is subject to suitable weather conditions and crew availability.
  • See the Contact page and call one of our instructors a day or so before you wish to fly.
  • For the Starter Package, all 5 flights must be completed within 30 days.
  • Starter Package flights may be spread across more than one day.
  • Further flights are possible at member rates for the 30 day membership period.

Eligibility

  • No age limit — children welcome provided they can reach all controls and a minimum age of 12 is preferred.
  • Maximum weight 100 kg (aircraft limitation).
  • You will need to provide your weight prior to flying.
  • No prior experience required.
  • All participants receive temporary GFA membership for the activity which entitles the individual a temorary 30 day membership where they can return and fly at member rates.

What to Bring

  • Enclosed footwear (required for safety on the field and in the glider)
  • Hat and sunscreen — especially in summer
  • A bottle of water
  • Dress appropriately for the weather — it can be cool at altitude

Cancellations & Refunds

  • If weather, aircraft unserviceability or other factors prevent completion of all Starter Package flights, a pro-rata refund will be applied
  • Minimum charge of $250 applies to the Starter Package
  • As with any aviation activity, risk cannot be eliminated — we work to reduce risk through training standards, procedures and maintenance

Aviation involves inherent risks including serious injury or death. Risk cannot be eliminated. All participants are required to read and accept our Terms & Conditions before flying.

Ready to Fly?

Book Your Flight

Online booking via Stripe is coming soon. In the meantime, please phone to arrange your booking — we'd love to hear from you and will help you choose the right package.

SR
Stephen Ross
AEF Bookings
0447 518 223
BK
Bob Kennedy
AEF Bookings
0414 326 804

Tunbridge Airfield — approximately 75 km north of Hobart via the Midland Highway.
Flying is mainly on weekends and mid-week — check our Facebook page for flying day notifications.

Glider at Tunbridge Airfield
50+
Years of gliding in Tasmania

What's next?

Loved Your First Flight?

Join Gliding Tasmania as a flying member and continue your journey toward a full glider pilot certificate.

Membership Options About the Club