Gliding Induction

The GIC syllabus allows trainees to operate the aircraft in the upper air. This course allows cadets to experience flying training at a younger age than that which is required for a Gliding Scholarship. It also intends to provide a basic understanding of the aircraft prior to cadets attending a scholarship course.

Cadets must be at least 13 years and 3 months to undertake the GIC syllabus and must have been enrolled to their respective ATC/CCF squadron. Upon completion of all three flights a certificate is awarded by the Commanding Officer of the VGS.

GIC 1

This flight is 20 minutes in duration and teaches the use of the elevators to control the pitch of the aircraft. This is often a trainees first ever experience in a glider and therefore a gradual introduction to flying is provided demonstrating the aircrafts stability, practicing handover and takeover control and familiarization with the local operating area.

GIC 2

The GIC 2 builds in the knowledge learnt from the previous course and is intended to teach the trainee how to roll the aircraft.

GIC 3

This is the final part of the GIC syllabus which lasts 30 minutes. In this flight the use of the rudder is taught to control yaw. Pitch and Roll are also revised and the trainee may be asked to attempt a selection of various attitudes. If time permits a gentle stall may be demonstrated.

NB. Once the GIC syllabus has been completed a cadet who attends the VGS as part of a GIC party will receive further 20 minute flights re-capping on the skills taught throughout the GIC syllabus in order to prepare them for a Gliding Scholarship Course.

Eligibility

This course is available to all Air Cadets from the CCF(RAF) and ATC who;

• are over the age of 13 years and 3 months
• have completed the airmanship aspect of the RAF Proficiency Part 1 / First Class
• have no temporary or permanent medical condition that would make flying unsafe for the cadet or pilot

Attendance

Induction Courses are usually covered over several visits to a VGS. However, should tasking permit, all three sorties may be flown. Courses are allocated in blocks of 3 or 8 to individual Sections/Squadrons, who are then responsible for filling the courses and insuring they attend.

Course Award

Trainees who successfully complete one or more of the three parts to the Gliding Induction Course are awarded a Certificate by the OC VGS