Gliders at KAMS

Gliding is one of the most relaxing and rewarding ways to fly. Without an engine, sailplanes rely on rising warm air (thermals) to stay aloft — turning quiet, smooth flying into a real skill that’s both fun and addictive.

At KAMS, newcomers are always welcome. Our experienced members are happy to explain the basics, help with setup, and guide you through your first thermal flights. With wide open skies and plenty of space, it’s an ideal place to learn and build confidence.

Whether you’re completely new to RC flying or looking to try something different, gliding at KAMS is a great way to experience the magic of silent flight.

Thermal Soaring & F3B

Thermal soaring and F3B represent the purest form of radio control gliding — silent, precise and incredibly rewarding. Using slender high-performance sailplanes, pilots search the sky for rising columns of warm air (thermals) to gain height without the use of an engine.

F3B competition adds another exciting dimension, with tasks that test duration, distance and speed — demanding both technical skill and teamwork. At KAMS, we are proud to have a strong gliding community, including pilots who have represented Australia at World Championship level.

With our generous 300m height clearance and wide open airspace, KAMS provides ideal conditions for both relaxed thermal flying and serious F3B competition practice. Whether you’re new to gliders or looking to refine advanced soaring skills, there’s always someone willing to share knowledge and help you chase that next perfect climb.

KAMS hosts several multi-task glider competitions every year — known as F3B. These comps are exciting as the gliders & pilots complete Speed, Distance & Duration tasks with models that really are the Formula 1 of RC Gliders!

Slope Soaring & F3F

Slope soaring offers a completely different style of gliding — fast, dynamic and powered purely by wind. Instead of thermals, pilots use air being pushed up a hillside or coastal ridge to keep their sailplanes airborne. When the wind is right, the lift can be continuous, allowing for long flights, high speeds and incredible aerobatics.

F3F takes slope soaring to the next level. It is a competitive racing discipline where pilots fly timed speed runs along a designated course, testing precision, control and energy management. Flights are intense, technical and highly addictive.

Note: While slope soaring and F3F are not flown at the KAMS airfield, our members regularly travel to suitable coastal and hillside locations when conditions are favourable. It’s a fantastic extension of gliding that showcases the versatility and performance of modern sailplanes.

If you like speed you could try F3F slope racing — the models are capable of completing 10 laps of a 100m course (1km total) in under 40 seconds. Not all gliders are slow!

Western Australia Competition Results (2022–Present)

Recent Western Australian glider competition results across F3B, F3F and F3J. Event names link to full standings where available.