Glider flight above the Ubaye Valley, Barcelonnette

Experience your first flight aboard a glider above the Ubaye Valley from the aerodrome of Barcelonnette, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence!

A glider or a sailplane is a thin and small two-seater plane without an engine that flies over big distances while having a high altitude thanks to its aerodynamics, providing very smooth flying sensations.

The discovery flight proposed by the Centre de Vol à Voile de l'Ubaye (Gliding Center) aims to give you an overview of gliding flight and discover the Ubaye valley from the sky.

Departing from Barcelonnette aerodrome, you'll receive a safety briefing and then board the aircraft. The pilot closes the canopy and then the takeoff is performed either by aerotow - the glider is towed behind a powered aircraft using a rope about 60m (200ft) long and the pilot releases the rope after reaching the desired altitude, or by winch which consists of using a powerful stationary engine located on the ground at the far end of the launch area.

A professional instructor will fly the sailplane and your flight will last approx. 30 minutes. You will be able to gaze at the wonderful mountain landscapes below your feet, and let you carry by the ascending and descending currents.

At the end of your gliding flight, the pilot performs some maneuvers before landing smoothly. You will leave the aerodrome with plenty of memories!