- Who can join the Sandhill Soaring Club?
- Do you provide instruction to new members?
- Is the training I receive through Sandhill enough to get my pilot's license?
- Are there any age restrictions to membership?
- Can my family participate too?
- I'd like to try soaring, but I'm not sure if it's right for me.
- How much does it cost?
- Do you charge fees for member use of gliders?
- Where are you located and when can I visit?
- Who do I contact for more information?
Anyone with an interest in soaring! Part of our charter is to "spread the word" about the sport, and Sandhill welcomes new members with no flying experience but a desire to learn. Current pilots are further encouraged to join, to share their excitement of aviation and perhaps introduce themselves to a new realm of flight.
We do. Sandhill's CFIGs (Certified Flight Instructor Glider) work tirelessly to train the best soaring pilots in Michigan. (Editor's note: yes, a CFIG wrote this.)
It is, combined with a little "ground school" of your own. Sandhill instructors will teach and monitor airmanship skills, recommend study material, and assist in preparation for FAA evaluations. The rest, as they say, will be up to you.
None for membership, but flight activities are those as mandated for gliders by the FAA. Individuals must be at least 14 years of age to fly solo, and must be 16 to receive a Private Pilot Glider license. Sandhill has members of all ages, with some continuing to fly into their 80s.
Of course! Soaring makes a great family activity, and there's always a little something for everyone to do at the airport. The benefits of family participation are many…younger members learn a sense of responsibility and independence, while parents can take pride in their children's achievements (as well as their own). And there's nothing quite like the thrill of making that first solo to the cheers of the family "ground crew."
Sandhill offers a Family Membership option designed to allow participation by all.
Sometimes you just don't know until you go. Sandhill offers a one day introductory flight membership, so that you can try out the ride of your life. We also offer several basic membership packages tailored for students, individuals, and families — there's sure to be one right for you.
Costs are dependent on the type of membership and the amount of flying done during the year. New members will pay an initiation fee; all members pay low monthly dues as well as costs for flight activities. Membership in the Soaring Society of America is also required, which is handled through the club.
As the differing scenarios are too varied to present examples here, please see our Schedule of Dues & Fees for a complete list of expenses for membership and flight activities.
Gliders are provided to members at a low hourly rate. Rental costs are as little as $7.50 per hour for our basic sailplanes.
Sandhill is based at Richmond Field in Gregory, Michigan. Visitors are welcome on days the club is flying, but we ask those wishing to discuss the club contact us first to ensure a member will be available to answer questions, or to take you on your first flight.
Convinced you'd like to become part of Michigan's premier soaring organization? Please see our contact page and give us a call.