The National Women’s Go Gliding Weekend

Of the UK’s nearly 30,000 pilots, fewer than 5% are women. Aviation—whether as a career, industry, or sport—has been slow to evolve, but Cambridge Gliding Club is helping shift the narrative by inspiring more women to take to the skies.

Join us at Gransden Lodge airfield, just 10km west of Cambridge, for our Women’s Go Gliding Weekend on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th May. This event is part of a broader initiative by the British Gliding Association (BGA) to expand the sport, welcoming fresh perspectives and skills to gliding.

Our women members share their passion for gliding in this short video—check it out to hear why they love it.

Gliding is a distinctive form of flight, harnessing sun-warmed air to soar silently across vast distances—sometimes over 1,000km, like the UK record of 1,108km. It’s an eco-friendly, exhilarating challenge that tests a pilot’s skill and understanding of the elements. Plus, it’s more accessible than powered flight, with lessons from qualified club instructors at a fraction of the cost.

At Cambridge Gliding Club, we welcome women of all ages to give it a try. Teens as young as 15 can start learning, and for most, gliding becomes a rewarding hobby—with the potential to spark a career in aviation. Our club thrives on supporting new pilots, including through our active Young Persons group.

“I had the best time gliding – my initial nerves disappeared as soon as I was in the air. I felt so safe that I was able to just lean into the experience and enjoy the breathtaking views – one of the best things I have done!” 

Lucy W

This Women’s Go Gliding Weekend is one of many happening nationwide, from Scotland to the West Country, backed by the BGA’s push for a more inclusive gliding community. “People often ask why more women aren’t gliding,” says Yvonne Elliott, the BGA’s Women’s Advocate. “There are barriers, sure, but we’re changing that—one warm welcome and great flight at a time.”

“Thanks to Jane, I learned a lot during the ground training sessions. All the girls had smiles on their faces and thoroughly enjoyed the trial flights in the lovely weather. Some of them even joined the club afterward, and I noticed how quickly they progressed during their training. I’m glad to see more women pilots in the sky!” 

CC – CGC & CUGC Member

Ready to soar? Cambridge Gliding Club is offering trial flights for prospective women members during the weekend starting at just £35. Book your spot here. Flights are available year-round too—email info@camgliding.uk for more info.