Progression course

Thermal course (Échappées d'Ailes)

Organizer: Échappées d'Ailes ↗

Thermal course at Échappées d'Ailes for pilots who already fly on their own in calm air and want longer flights. It starts by checking piloting basics (pendular movements, big ears, speed bar, rear-riser steering) and moves on to priorities and safety, weather and aerological traps, how thermals form, turning and centring, landing approaches in varied conditions, positioning relative to terrain and clouds, and flight preparation. Pilots learn when to use instruments, practise reverse launches and work on the mental side; each gets a personal debrief with goals. One or two instructors, depending on the group, can fly alongside, and an instructional tandem is available on request. Flying takes place around Lake Annecy and on other sites. It can be booked by the week or by the day.