Current Issue

Discover a timeless classic of soaring, and why disability is no barrier to the sky in the Dec/Jan issue of S&G. You can also learn why Hosin was an outstanding venue for the VGC International Rally and complete a festive safety quiz that may inspire New Year’s resolutions.

The Standard Cirrus is a timeless classic of soaring – beautifully simple, impressively capable, and still loved more than 50 years after its first flight. Designed by Klaus Holighaus and introduced in 1969, the Std Cirrus became the foundation for Schempp-Hirth’s modern glider lineage. Owners enjoy straightforward maintenance, excellent parts support, and a passionate global community that keeps these aircraft flying beautifully. Whether in club soaring, vintage competitions, or leisurely cross-country adventures, owners say that the Std Cirrus offers an engaging, responsive flight experience with a charm that modern gliders can’t quite replicate.

When Mark James arrived at Sutton Bank for an introductory trial flight, instructors were concerned to notice he has no right hand. After a short discussion around what he could and could not do, he was given the green light to fly. Mark committed to further flights and slowly but surely his confidence grew as he spent more time in the air controlling the glider with his right hook. The support of local and visiting instructors, and time spent training in the simulator, led to Mark being sent solo. Mark says that what his experiences have taught him is that many apparent disabilities can be overcome in flying with the support of others, determination to succeed, testing one’s capabilities and practice. He is confident that disability is no barrier to flying and is now working towards flying single-seaters.

The 2025 VGC International Rally at Hosin proved to be a standout event, delivering superb organisation, spirited flying and warm hospitality. Thanks to Vaclav Kysilka’s initiative, VGC pilots enjoyed a week of smooth operations, lively social events and memorable soaring – from aerobatic displays and international evening festivities to stunning cross-country flights in classic gliders. Despite mixed weather, the enthusiasm never dipped, culminating in a lively closing day that perfectly captured the energy and camaraderie of this unforgettable rally.

Gliding clubs take safety very seriously: they have some great ways of managing risks and often work hard on further improvements. However, there’s always more to do and there are things that could be done better. The BGA Safety Team has put together a festive quiz to assess where your club stands that might inspire some New Year’s resolutions. Answer according to how your club is now, how you’d like it to be, what’s achievable, or what you think pilots are willing to accept. Then decide your overall level and award yourself a Club Safety label.

Also in this issue: John Norman is in the spotlight for our pilot profile. Paul Brice reports on the first National Glider Aerobatic Championships since 2018. Adrian Morgan describes an airfield after dark. Stephen Clinton looks at a cadet scheme that’s been running since 1996. Adam Hoskins drops in on polo matches during a landout from heaven. There are four pages of results from BGA-rated UK competitions, plus the announcement of the BGA provisional ratings list. Alison Randle reports on the Club Development Conference. Pete Stratten highlights an initiative to encourage new inspectors. Plus, many more of your stunning images in the Gallery pages.

Fly safely and have fun