Gliding Induction Course
A cadet's first experience
of gliding will be when they attend a VGS with their ATC squadron or CCF
unit. They will undertake a Gliding Induction Course (GIC) which aims
not only to allow cadets to experience gliding but also to give instruction
on the basic flying controls of the Viking.
There are three levels
of GIC available, the level at which a cadet flies at on any one visit
being dependent on what level of GIC had previously been attained. Thus,
on their first visit to 615, a cadet will undertake a GIC 1, moving onto
the higher levels on subsequent visits.
GIC 1, consisting
of 3 launches will usually be the first time that a cadet has flown in
a glider and hence the instructor will take time to point out the local
area and demonstrate the stability of the aircraft. The student will also
be shown how to control pitch using the control column.
GIC 2 is a four launch
package and aims to build and develop skills learnt in GIC 1. Pitch is
revised to allow the student to get used to the flying controls again.
Instruction is then given on how to roll the aircraft. This will allow
a student to effectively 'fly' the aircraft themselves, with prompting
from the instructor.
GIC 3 is the highest
level of GIC and takes 5 launches to complete. It encompasses all elements
previously learnt and will also teach the cadet how to use the rudder
and thus co-ordinate control movements to fly the aircraft in balance.
A stall will also be demonstrated by the instructor.
Visiting cadets will
also have an important role to play when they are not flying. The efficient
running of the launch point requires cable handlers and wing tip orderlies
to help launch the aircraft. Cadets will be taught how to undertake these
duties when they arrive at the VGS in the morning and will have plenty
of opportunity to put these newly learnt skills into use on the airfield
under the supervision of the launch point marshall.
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