Gliders

Gliders are aircraft without engines that stay in the air by using rising currents of air.

How It Works

Gliders have long, narrow wings that create lots of lift with little drag. They may be towed into the sky by another plane or launched from a winch.

Why It Matters

Pilots look for rising warm air called thermals. Gliding teaches careful flying because there is no engine to rely on.

Fun Facts

• Gliders have long, narrow wings that create lots of lift with little drag.
• They may be towed into the sky by another plane or launched from a winch.
• Pilots look for rising warm air called thermals.
• Gliding teaches careful flying because there is no engine to rely on.

Did You Know?

Engineers study gliders by testing, measuring, improving designs, and learning from real-world use.