Sport thermal sailplanes are some of the simplest model aircraft and the easiest to fly yet the most challenging and addictive. With even the most inexpensive model you could be soon soaring for literally hours in one flight! For your first model look for a thermal glider in the two meter class that requires only 2-channels of control. These models are very stable, and they will usually accept standard two channel radio equipment. Launching is best done with a bungee.

How are thermal gliders launched?

The most popular way to launch thermal soarers is to use a slingshot-like device called a bungee. Bungees use the combination of a length of rubber to provide the energy for the launch and a length of fishing line to give extra height. A standard length bungee (30 metres of rubber and about 140 metres of fishing line) can give around 500 feet of altitude, and the line slips off the model's towhook when the tension in the rubber has gone. Bungees work best on models under 2.5 metre wingspan and a complete bungee setup costs between A$150 and A$200 depending on the quality and strength of the rubber. The diagram below shows how a model is bungee launched.

Soar with the Eagles!

After the launch it is up to you to to try to find thermals to extend your flight time. A typical full launch will provide several minutes of flying time, but this can be extended to literally hours in good soaring conditions. Quite often soaring birds such as eagles will help you find good lift, and will often fly right alongside model sailplanes. Thermal soaring is challenging skill and does require practice but is not difficult to learn and is made easier if you know what to look for. Find out more about thermals in our guide to Thermal Soaring. The best way to improve your thermal soaring skills is to fly in competitions. A great way to get into thermal soaring competitions is to enter your local Two Channel or Two Metre class competition with a basic two metre sailplane. If you can keep your model up for five minutes, you have a chance of winning. The key is to participate and have fun!

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Prelude

Introduction | Electric Flight | Thermal Soaring | Slope Soaring Thermal Soaring: Introduction | Soaring Basics | Sport Gliders | Scale Sailplanes