How to Buy Gliders in Maine

Gliders, also known as sailplanes, are unpowered aircraft that stay airborne by using naturally occurring currents of rising air. Experienced glider pilots can soar for many miles, and the world record is a flight of 440 miles.

  1. Clubs

    • Particularly for novices, buying a used sailplane makes good sense, since the would-be pilot can gain experience, hone his skills and get in plenty of practice for a relatively small amount. Contact flying clubs in Maine to source used planes. The Bald Eagle Flying Club in Yarmouth is Maine's oldest flying club and members will be a useful source of information and ideas as to sourcing used planes locally. You could also try Knix County Flying Club in Rockland.

    Companies

    • The flying community is very close knit and anyone interested in the sport in Maine will have plenty of local information to share. Contact companies that offer glider rides. They may have surplus sailplanes that are available for sale or be able to source planes at discounted rates. Try Island Soaring Glider Rides in Trenton.

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    • Subscribe to magazines such as "Soaring" and local publications dedicated to sport flying. These often have classified sections, where you'll find gliders for sale in Maine. Check out websites such as the Soaring Society of America, which features classified advertisements for private sales and dealers. You can also place advertisements seeking a glider on the notice boards at local airports and at local clubs and on websites such as MyPlane and Aerotrader.