Organisation profile

GlideZeit

• School

GlideZeit structures beginner training around a basic course in Tübingen followed by high flights in the Alps. The basic course normally spans four days, progressing from introductory theory and running with the wing on flat ground to flights at Österberg. The offer lists fifteen flights with 30–70 metres of height difference, radio guidance, loan equipment and a digital training record.

The Höhenflugkurs in Wildschönau is advertised as a nine-day block spanning two weekends, preparing students for the A-Schein. It lists forty supervised high flights, twenty 45-minute theory units and simulator preparation for flight exercises. Two instructors provide radio guidance, weather briefings and video analysis. Additional dates are arranged if weather prevents completion of the flights; equipment is excluded at this stage.

The FAQ specifies that the introductory and basic courses provide a wing, harness, helmet and radio. Students bring supportive boots, weather-appropriate clothing, food and drinks. After the introductory day, training can be scheduled more flexibly; the basic course prepares students for the next stage rather than completing the entire training route.

At Lake Annecy in France, GlideZeit has run week-long safety training courses over the lake since 1991. DHV-certified safety trainers guide pilots from A-licence level by radio through manoeuvres over the water, with automatic life jackets, a rescue boat and daily video analysis; pilots launch from the Col de la Forclaz and land by the school's camp at the La Nublière campsite. At the same venue the school also offers a week-long FXC camp that combines SIV with thermal and cross-country training towards the B licence.