Toronto Soaring Club Inc. FAQ

The soaring season in southern Ontario generally begins May 1, and lasts until approximately the end of October. The TSC operates on weekends and statutory holidays during the soaring season. In addition, many members enjoy mid-week soaring when conditions and the availability of other members permit. Revenue is generated from membership dues, towing fees and aircraft rental paid by club members. All surplus funds stay within the club to provide better equipment and facilities to all club members. Probationary membership in the Toronto Soaring Club is open to any individual who meets the age and medical requirements of Transport Canada. Current membership in the club includes all age groups, from high school students, through to retired seniors. Members who are enrolled full time in high school or university pay one half the annual membership fee, all other flying fees are the same for every member.

Approximately how much will is cost?
What are the age requirements to learn to soar?
About our airfield; How long? What services?

Approximately how much will is cost?

Students receive flight training under the guidance of certified instructors. Flight instruction is provided free of charge by virtue of the club environment. The only cost to the student, apart from the annual club membership fee, consists of towing fees and sail plane rental charges. An eager novice pilot can go solo on a budget of approximately $1,600-$1,800 in one season. That's a lot of enjoyment for a $30.00 per week entertainment budget over a year! TSC sets a simple fee structure each year (increased usually only by inflation) to cover expenses, allow for planned aircraft maintenance and to purchase new aircraft. There are no initiation or debenture fees. There are no block time or minimum flying time purchases required. A one hour limit is imposed if members are waiting to fly, but If the glider is available, you can fly over 2 hours per day and pay a maximum of 2 hours rental per ship per day.

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What are the age requirements to learn to soar?

Age is no barrier to the potential soaring pilot. Although parental permission is required for those under 18, it is possible to begin instruction and to fly solo by age 14, and to hold a full license at age 16. The upper age limit depends on satisfying the club that you are fit to fly. For more information go to Transport Canada

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About our airfield; How long? What services?

The airfield consists of two turf runways, 35-17, and cross runway 08-26, of lengths 3300 ft and 2600 ft respectively. Other facilities include a hangar, workshop, clubroom, winch and tow plane. Members may pay a nominal fee (local tax charges mostly) to park house trailers. Water and power hook-ups are the member's responsibility. If you would like to camp overnight, please call in advance of your visit to arrange. Soft drinks and snack food is usually available, no meals are offered. Bring a lunch to be safe! Motels and restaurants are located in the town of Shelburne and the town of Mount Forest, each being 20 minutes' drive.

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