Pilot Profile – Olivia

We recently chatted with one of our newer solo pilots at CGC about how she got into gliding, what keeps her coming back, and why she wants to pursue aerobatics. Her story shows gliding is for anyone with a curiosity for the skies—no aviation lineage required!

How did you get into gliding?

“I’ve always loved aviation,” she shares. “As a kid, I’d go to air shows with my dad, and that sparked something. I considered becoming a commercial pilot, but after a law degree—and admitting I’m not great at maths—I looked elsewhere. A friend from school took me for a trial flight at Wattisham, and I was hooked. I found CGC closer to home and started training.”

Olivia went solo last Summer after about a year and a half of lessons. “I’ve done five solo flights so far and I’m getting back into it now that the weather’s improving. With my Monday-to-Friday job, I fly weekends—it’s a hobby I love fitting into my life.”

What’s your background?

Her dad wasn’t a pilot, just a fan of sports cars and air shows. “I grew up around that energy with my brother and cousins,” she laughs. Now, she’s an aerospace warranty administrator, managing warranty for a large airlines Boeing fleet. “It’s less glamorous than it sounds—I get hands on with aircraft parts, chat with engineers about defects and submit aircraft manufacturer and supplier claims. Gliding definitely helped me get the job. It gave me real experiences to share in interviews, way beyond ‘I like air shows.’ Starting at 22 as a young woman in aviation also showed my determination.”

What’s next for your flying? 

“I’ve started studying for my Bronze, but I’m taking my time,” she says. “Right now, I want to build confidence locally, convert to the Junior, and dive into aerobatics. I love the thrill of it—and there is so much more to gliding than jumping straight into cross-country flights. Gliding’s my escape, and I want to keep it fun with no pressure.”

Favorite instructors?

She’s flown with Steve Phillips, Jo Brand, and James Shaw “Jo’s incredible—so smooth and great at explaining things. James took me spinning early on, which boosted my confidence.” She’s eager to fly with Simon Smith too, who made her feel welcome from day one.

Thoughts on the club?

“When I started, everything was new and exciting. I think introductory sessions for beginners would make joining even easier—simple stuff like airfield basics. CGC having bookable slots is also such a benefit to the club, knowing who you will fly with and not having to rule out a whole day in the hopes of one flight like other clubs. I’m also excited about more instructors this summer. I’d love extra info on aerobatics too—it’s so approachable and could be part of training from the start. Knowing the limits of the aircraft is such a helpful skill to understand and bring confidence when going solo.

Why gliding?

“Flying is a hobby for me. You can take it at your own pace and do whatever you want. There is no pressure to see how quickly you can get solo. It is a sport that should be enjoyed at your own pace, so as to not take the fun out of it – fun being the key part!” Gliding can be for anyone, she insists. “People think it’s expensive or daunting, but most of us have everyday stories. My advice? Try it. You don’t need to be a maths genius or a pilot’s kid—just show up and soar.”