Secondly, birds such as crows, gulls and buzzards are experts at spotting thermals, so if we see a flock of them circling nearby, it usually pays to join them. Thirdly, certain types of ground terrain are more likely to release thermals than others. Vast distances can be covered this way, some outstanding flights being in excess of 100 miles from the point of take off. So if this appeals to you, come and join us. It is probably the cheapest way to fly, and undoubtedly the most pleasant, with no engine noise, no fuel or fumes, and no airport fees.
All pilots belong to at least one club.
The Club has agreements with its neighbours to fly their sites as well, particularly on the isle of Wight, and further west into Dorset and South Wiltshire. However, the sport has moved on significantly since its birth in the 1970' s, when untrained pilots flew relatively untested wings, often ones they had built themselves from bamboo and tarpaulin. By comparison, today's aircraft are built to an extremely high safety specification, laid down by the Civil Aviation Authority, and all are rigorously stress tested well beyond their normal flying loads, ensuring that the aircraft are airworthy, and safe to fly. No, not a licence, but a certificate of competence called the Club Pilot Certificate. It is issued on successful completion of flying training at a BHPA recognized school, and enables you to join a club, such as the Sky Surfers and fly their sites.