Fleet & Airfield Facilities
Cambridge Gliding Centre operates one of the most comprehensive, professionally maintained club fleets in the UK. From docile ab-initio two-seaters and aerobatic sailplanes to touring motorgliders and single-seater cross-country gliders.
Training & Aerobatic Two-Seaters
Dedicated dual-control gliders for trial lessons, student training, annual checks, and aerobatics.
Schleicher ASK 21
The international benchmark for glider instruction. With an all-composite 17-metre wingspan and docile handling qualities, our two K21s provide the backbone of our daily training and trial lessons.
- Wingspan: 17.0 m
- Glide Ratio (L/D): 34:1
- Max Speed (VNE): 151 knots (280 km/h)
- Role: Ab-initio training, spin training, passenger flights
SZD-54-2 Perkoz
A modern Polish high-performance sailplane capable of full positive and negative aerobatics (+7.0g / -5.0g) in 17.5m configuration, and cross-country soaring with 20m wingtips.
- Wingspan: 17.5 m / 20.0 m
- Glide Ratio (L/D): 42:1 (20m tips)
- G-Limits: +7.0g / -5.0g (Aerobatic)
- Role: Aerobatics training, advanced cross-country
SZD-50-3 Puchacz
Renowned for its crisp control response and true-to-life spin characteristics, making it an invaluable platform for stall/spin awareness and instructor training.
- Wingspan: 16.67 m
- Glide Ratio (L/D): 30:1
- Max Speed (VNE): 116 knots (215 km/h)
- Role: Spin training, annual checks, circuit work
Motorglider & Vintage Heritage
Year-round all-weather touring and classic British gliding heritage.
Scheibe SF25C Falke (TMG)
Our Rotax-powered Falke allows year-round navigation exercises, field-landing practice, instrument training, and cross-country touring regardless of thermal conditions.
- Engine: Rotax 912A (80 hp)
- Cruise Speed: 85–90 knots
- Endurance: 4.5 hours
- Role: Field landing training, TMG ratings, navigation
Slingsby T21 Sedbergh ("Bluebell")
A beloved club treasure, "Bluebell" is an open-cockpit side-by-side wooden trainer. Flying Bluebell on a warm summer evening is one of the greatest pleasures in English aviation.
- Wingspan: 16.46 m
- Cockpit: Side-by-side open cockpit
- Glide Ratio: 21:1
- Role: Heritage flying, club evening flying
Single-Seater Scheme
Club single-seaters available for post-solo members and cross-country badge flights.
Centrair 101 Pegase
A responsive 15-metre fiberglass sailplane with excellent low-speed thermalling capabilities, ideal for solo pilots stepping up to cross-country tasks.
- Wingspan: 15.0 m
- Glide Ratio: 38:1
- Role: Early solo soaring, Silver/Gold badge flights
Schempp-Hirth Discus DM
Legendary German cross-country machine featuring distinctive swept-back leading edges and outstanding high-speed glide performance.
- Wingspan: 15.0 m
- Glide Ratio: 42:1
- Role: 300km/500km cross-country, competition soaring
Airfield Facilities at Gransden Lodge
Comprehensive support for launching, maintenance, simulation, and hospitality.
Skylaunch Winch & Tugs
Our heavy-duty twin-drum Skylaunch V8 winch delivers rapid, economical launches to 1,500 ft. For higher tows and aerotow training, we operate dedicated Robin DR400 tug planes.
Flight Simulator Coaching
A full-cockpit motion-assisted glider simulator equipped with wrap-around displays. Used for emergency cable-break practice, instrument scans, and bad-weather coaching.
Workshop & Maintenance Bays
Two spacious heated engineering bays for glider maintenance, annual ARC inspections, modifications, and member trailer/glider rigging.
Clubhouse, Cafe & Camping
Modern clubhouse with briefing rooms, kitchen/bar, shower facilities, Wi-Fi, caravan hookups, and tent camping areas for visiting pilots and members.