Nathan88

"common" was probably a strong word without going into stats and figures. You guys will have more experience in things like student retention then me obviously. The statement was just advice from one newbe to another newerbe. I would of liked to take that first baby step by taking a tandem flight to see if it was for me. So I'd assume 1 or 2 others would to. Everyone's different but I think advising a £70 tandem flight before someone's 5 to 10 grand deep into a sport thats not for them, is pritty solid advice. Its one of those things that's down to opinion and that was mine to the OP. Stay safe guys.

First thing is to find an instructor around your area. a quick google search brings up a school in Glasgow (not sure if they are still active) or you could advertise for an individual a bit closer to home to train you (sure theres someone on here). training can be anywhere between £1000-£2000. its worth it and really is a must. finding a pilot who would be happy to give you a tandem flight would be a bonus, its common for people to take their first flight and find its not for them. once training is done its time to gear yourself up. older gear your looking at- wing = £1000-£2000. motor = £1500-£3000 new gear, wing = £2500+. motor £4000+ after all that the sport becomes a lot cheaper, just fuel really. happy hunting.

There's Brad quin a few hours east from you in scunthorpe. He got me from zero exp to that first magical (terrifying) flight by the end of day two.