DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-087-0-0436

ZERO-EMISSION SPORT AND RECREATIONAL FLYING?

Jiří Chlebek¹, Jitka Fialová², Pavla Kotásková², Dastan Bamwesigye², Miroslav Červenka¹

¹ Department of Aerospace Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Brno University of Technology, Technická 2896/2, 616 69 Brno, Czechia

² Department of Landscape Management, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Mendel University in Brno, Zemědělská 1, 613 00 Brno,Czechia

This article provides a comprehensive overview of gliding as a form of sport and recreational aviation, emphasizing its close relationship with natural atmospheric phenomena and its minimal environmental impact. It introduces the broader context of sustainability in aviation and outlines relevant European, international, and Czech regulations that influence gliding activities. The text traces the historical development of gliding from early 19th‑century experimental gliders to the emergence of organized sport gliding in the 1920s and its continued evolution into a modern competitive discipline. Detailed explanations are provided on launch methods, soaring techniques using ridge lift, thermals, and wave lift, as well as principles of cross‑country flying. The article also describes the FAI performance badge system, including Silver, Gold, and Diamond levels, and outlines the structure and demands of national and international gliding competitions. Emphasis is placed on the importance of meteorological knowledge, terrain awareness, and pilot skill for safe and effective soaring. Finally, the article highlights gliding as an accessible and environmentally friendly way to experience flight, connect with nature, and explore landscapes from a unique aerial perspective.

Keywords: Gliding, Sailplane / Glider, Sport aviation, Recreational flying, Environmental impact of aviation

pages: 436-440, Published: 2026, online: 2026