The 2007 Torrey Pines soaring season is almost here. The Associated Glider Clubs of Southern California (AGCSC) will attempt to revive soaring at this historic site for the first time since 2004. All soaring enthusiasts are welcome to help preserve the valuable heritage of the Torrey Pines gliderport by attending this event as a participant or spectator.
Current plans call for site preparation to begin on Saturday, February 24 (volunteers needed). If all goes well winch launches will begin on Sunday February 25.
We will attempt flying over the subsequent weekends weather and circumstances permitting . There is no flying allowed during the UCSD spring break (March 25-April 1) and our permit will end sometime in April. If you plan to travel some distance to see us fly we strongly recommend contacting us in advance so you don't waste a trip.
If you are a pilot wishing to fly his own aircraft, you must have been previously checked out on our winch by a club instructor. There currently is not time for new pilots to be checked out prior to the beginning of the season. There will be no rental aircraft available.
Rides: AGCSC is not a commercial operation; our primary mission is to allow club members to enjoy the sport of soaring and when possible to introduce the general public to this unique experience. If circumstances permit it may be possible for a member of the general public to obtain an intro flight, but we cannot guarantee this. Club members and their personal guests always have priority.
Update: 2/22/07Rain has delayed efforts to prepare the runway. Work party planned for Sunday February 25, 10 AM. Winch clinic planned at Warner Springs on Friday, March 2. Hope for start of Torrey Season on weekend of March 3.
Eight flights took place at Torrey Pines today. We will fly this Saturday weather permitting. Airport closed Sunday through April 8.
Update: 4/29/07The 2007 Torrey Pines season is now closed! Thanks to those who made this the first successful Torrey season in two years. Look for photos on the Photo Gallery
Further information can be obtained by sending e-mail to <information@agcsc.org> or by leaving a phone message on the club answering machine: +1 619 338-1638.
Q: Can I fly my motorglider at Torrey Pines?
A: Yes, but you may not launch it there. Our airport permit with the State of California expressly prohibits it. And you probably wouldn't want to land it there. Several people have launched their motorgliders from nearby airports, motored to Torrey Pines, ridge soared, and then motored back. You must be comfortable navigating your motorglider through controlled airspace.
Q: I live far away. How do I tell in advance if a good Torrey day is coming?
A: Look for the passage of a storm, with the low passing to the north, near LA. We've had good luck with the NOAA San Diego web site. Click on the San Diego coastal region and look for predictions of west winds exceeding 15mph, preferably 20-25mph. It is usually possible to predict a good Torrey day, with a fair degree of certainty, 1 or 2 days in advance.
Check here for current conditions at the gliderport.