• 
• 
• 

RIDES - about

Experience the thrill of motorless flight over the beautiful Tennessee countryside and ridges. Admire the Hiwassee River from thousands of feet in the air as you go up like a bird in a warm thermal. On some days you can fly the ridgeline at awesome speeds. Other times you can take hold of the controls with your pilot and feel what it is like to fly a glider through the various air currents that sustain free flight. These are all the joys of soaring at the Chilhowee Gliderport.

Since the early 1970’s Chilhowee Gliderport has offered rides, instruction, and towing. It is a great place to come spend the day watching the beauty of soaring, hitching a ride, or the start point for a long cross-country flight. Our powerful Pawnee towplane can tow most any type of glider year round and rides are provided by FAA certified “commercial glider pilots.” Additionally, you can get primary instruction for the new pilot or transition training for the current power pilot who wants to add “glider” to his or her ticket.

Chilhowee is open year round. We are open weather permitting, from approximately 11:00 AM until 6:00 PM every Friday through Sunday, and weekdays by appointment. We accept walk-ups, however, call 423-338-2000 for reservations. Calling will ensure you are scheduled for your ride, the ride of a lifetime.

Sailplane rides: The 20 minute flight costs $99, or spend an entire half hour soaring for only $139. Two can ride together: 20 minutes $159 or 30 minutes $219. See Video