Membership

Rated pilots, students, and brand-new aviators are welcome.

Come to Garner Gliderport, talk with members, and watch operations. Soaring is quiet, technical, and direct: your goal is to stay aloft using the power of the sun.

Ready to join?

Print the membership application and bring it to Garner Gliderport.

Fill it out at home, then bring it with you so club board members can review and sign it at the field.

Download application PDF

Costs to get started

Membership requires a one-time application fee and ongoing dues. Adult members also maintain required SSA membership.

Membership fee	Cost
Initiation fee	$300
Refundable deposit	$200
Family member, each	$50
Yearly SSA dues	$75 adult / $42 youth
Monthly dues	$45

Typical adult cost to join: $620.00

Instruction Q&A

How old do I have to be?: There is no minimum or maximum age for lessons, but students must be able to enter, exit, and reach the controls. You must be 14 to solo and 16 to earn a certificate.
Do I need a medical certificate?: No. You should not have any medical condition that would prevent safe aircraft operation.
How long does training take?: It depends on motivation, weather, aircraft availability, and how regularly you fly and study.

Member expectations

TSS operates throughout the year, weather permitting. Weekend operations are scheduled with assigned duty crews and tow pilots; weekday operations are ad hoc.

Members help operate and maintain the club through scheduled duty days and project work.

Tidewater Soaring Society gliderport scene.

Club Aircraft

Five sailplanes and two tow planes support training and member flying.

Sailplanes

Schweizer 2-33A training glider
Schleicher ASK 21 dual-place sailplane
PZL Swidnik PW-6 dual-place sailplane
Schweizer 1-26D single-place glider
PZL Bielsko PW-5 single-place sailplane

Tow planes

Piper Pawnee 235
Champion Scout