Welcome to Windy City Soaring Association
Windy City Soaring Association (WCSA) is a non-profit organization, a 501(c)(7) social club, dedicated to the promotion and enjoyment of soaring. Our members are also part of the Soaring Society of America (SSA). The purpose of the Windy City Soaring Association is educational and our intent is to have members participate in a program of education and training in the art and science of soaring within a club atmosphere.
We offer introductory flights, commonly referred to as glider rides or sailplane rides, with the primary intention of educating the public about our sport in general and our club in particular through an up close and personal activity. Participants not only learn about soaring but also have the joyful experience of a lifetime.
WCSA is based at Hinckley Airport (0C2) in the friendly village of Hinckley IL, situated about fifty miles west of downtown Chicago. We are a short drive from most locations in northern Illinois and a great airport for a fly-in visit if you are already a pilot.
Our club owns and operates two tow planes and several beautiful club gliders / sailplanes . In addition, many of our members also own their own sailplanes.
The range of our member's flying experience includes aviation beginners, (from mature pre-teens to senior-citizens), seasoned multi rating instructors, cross country experts, and even a few record holders. Several of our members also participate in competitive flying.
We are organized as a volunteer working club wherein qualified members serve as ground crew, tow pilots, ride pilots and flight instructors. We each also perform other tasks as necessary for the club to conduct flight operations and social activities. Speaking of social activities, you really don't want to miss our fall Chili Fest!
Each member contributes according to their individual abilities and qualifications. And, with our diverse backgrounds, flying experience, and ages, the club runs exceptionally well.
Family members and visitors are all welcome and we offer special rates for both family and junior members. And, of course, we would love to have you stop by our hangars or club house for an introductory flight or to talk with our members about any aspect of soaring. Come on by and we'll show you around.
Note for Scouts: Merit badges can be earned through a visit to our club. Troop leaders are more than welcome to arrange an outing with us.
Purchase An Introductory Flight With Us
With your purchase you will receive:
• An Introductory Flight in a dual control sailplane (AKA a glider)
• You'll fly with a certificated commercial pilot or flight instructor
• A tow to 4000 feet
• A glider ride of about 30 minutes
• Flight time depends on conditions and maneuvers performed
• Amazing panoramic views and the joy of soaring like bird
After you purchase your flight:
• Call us at (815) 286-7200 to make your flight reservation. Please leave a message, we are often not at the field, but WILL return your message.
Introductory Flights are scheduled:
• April - November
• Saturday or Sunday
• 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Weather, equipment availability, and pilot availability permitting
*** MAXIMUM PASSENGER WEIGHT RESTRICTION ***
242 lbs - fully clothed
This is a safety requirement dictated by the manufacturer of our aircraft and we cannot make exceptions.
Please do not purchase an introductory flight if you cannot meet this important safety restriction.
Click Here To Purchase Your Flight
John Ehrisman Windy City Soaring Youth Scholarship
When Long-time Windy City Soaring member and our good friend John Ehrisman passed away in late 2018, we in the club, in accordance with his wishes and the encouragement of his family, established the John Ehrisman Windy City Soaring Youth Scholarship in celebration of John’s life and to inspire and support youth flying.
All scholarship funds will be used to assist youth members with their flight training costs.
Please Make A Donation
To donate to this scholarship fund, please click the link below.
Make a Donation
How To Apply For This Scholarship
For inquiries regarding how to become a scholarship recipient, please navigate to the Contact Us page of our web site and send us an email expressing your interest. A member of the Scholarship Committee will get back to you with details.