Ridge Soaring Gliderport serves Unionville, US.
Ridge Soaring Gliderport (79N) in Unionville, US, which was once a world-renowned destination for glider enthusiasts, has permanently closed. It was sold in early 2022 and is being converted into a horse ranch. This means recent traveler reviews and experiences directly at 79N are unavailable, as the facility is no longer operational for gliding activities. However, historical sentiment indicates it was highly regarded by the soaring community for its exceptional flying conditions and supportive environment.
What Travelers Loved (Historically):
- Exceptional Soaring Conditions: The gliderport was strategically located where the Allegheny plateau meets the Bald Eagle Ridge, offering world-famous ridge, thermal, and wave soaring opportunities. Gliders could reach altitudes over 32,000 feet in wave lift and thermals often rose above 18,000 feet.
- Record-Setting Location: Numerous U.S. National and World records, including FAI world records, were set from this airfield.
- Support for Pilots: It was known for accommodating pilots new to ridge soaring and providing good support for both beginners and experienced record flyers.
- On-site Amenities (Historical): The gliderport historically offered facilities such as three large hangars, a heated workshop, a bunkhouse with a break area that could sleep up to 15, RV hookups, a retail store, training room, offices, and a flight control room.
- Central Location: Situated in central Pennsylvania, it was within a 500-mile radius of half the U.S. population, making it accessible from various states.
Common Complaints
- Closure of Gliderport: The most significant "complaint" for the soaring community is the permanent closure of the gliderport in 2022.
- Deteriorating Local Conditions: Prior to its sale, some noted that housing development, improved roadways, and general growth of State College had negatively impacted the soaring conditions in that specific section of the ridge.
- Runway Condition (Historical): The runway surface, a mix of asphalt, turf, grass, and sod, was noted to be in poor condition and to drain poorly, with water accumulating during rainy periods.
- Unmarked Runway and Displaced Thresholds (Historical): Runway and displaced thresholds were unmarked, and approach slopes had obstructions like trees.
Ridge Soaring Gliderport was a truly special place for the soaring community, celebrated for its unique geographical advantages that allowed for exceptional ridge, thermal, and wave soaring, attracting pilots from around the world and leading to many record-setting flights. While it offered basic but functional amenities like a bunkhouse, its primary appeal was always the unparalleled flying experience. The closure of this historic gliderport marks a significant loss for the sport. Most glider traffic in the region has since shifted to Mifflin County Airport.
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Where is Ridge Soaring Gliderport located?
Ridge Soaring Gliderport is located in Unionville, US, at an elevation of 815 ft. Its IATA code is — and ICAO code is 79N.