A 1-on-1 flying experience you’ll never forget.
Fulfill your dreams of soaring like a bird with an exhilarating flight in a state-of-the-art two-seat glider. Enjoy a panoramic view of Vancouver Island and the Alberni Valley while floating on silent wings.
Treat yourself to one of the most unique experiences you can find on Vancouver Island.
Have you ever dreamed about being a bird, or marvelled at a hawk circling effortlessly overhead on a hot summer day? Well, dream no longer - you can experience the freedom of soaring on silent wings too!
Our Transport Canada-certified pilots will carry you aloft in a state-of-the-art two-seat glider. Seated in the front seat, you will be surrounded by spectacular views of the Beaufort Mountains, crystal-clear freshwater lakes, ocean inlets and the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island. You’ll see the town of Port Alberni below and cruise over Sproat Lake, keeping an eye out for the massive Martin Mars waterbombers at their base. If you’re lucky, you might even get to circle in a thermal with other birds!
We are open Wednesday to Sunday, April to October (weather permitting).
Located at the Alberni Valley Regional Airport, the Vancouver Island Soaring Centre is nestled in the beautiful Alberni Valley, just minutes past the town of Port Alberni on the road to the Pacific Rim National Park, Tofino and Ucluelet.
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Ridge Flight - 30 minutes
Seated up front, you will soar like an eagle along a ridge-line, surrounded by spectacular views: the Beaufort Mountains, crystal-clear fresh water lakes, waterfalls, and the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island. Ask your pilot to show you what soaring is all about, or just sit back and enjoy the view.
Tow to 4000 feet, 30 minute flight. $325 + GST
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Peak View Flight - 1 hour
Our most popular flight! Cruise around the sky above the peaks, driven only by thermal energy. Enjoy spectacular views of both coasts of Vancouver Island, including Comox, Qualicum and the Coastal Mountains. Soar with the eagles above magnificent mountains, forests, lakes, waterfalls and ocean inlets.
Tow to 6000 feet – 1 hour flight. $435 + GST
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Ultimate Mt. Arrowsmith - 1.5hr
Our ultimate flight experience, featuring a “high tow” to 7500ft over Mt. Arrowsmith, the highest peak east of Port Alberni. Soar for up to 1.5-hours offering extended views of this unique Biosphere region, Port Alberni and both coasts of the island. Includes complimentary HD video and VISC bucket hat.
Tow to 7500 feet - 1.5 hour flight. $695 + GST.
Looking to surprise someone with a bucket-list adventure?
Gift Certificates are available.
Highlights from the opening month of soaring in May 2024.
Another day of soaring in paradise on Vancouver Island.
Please read the following important information, terms, and conditions.
Passenger weight limit is 230lb (104kg) fully clothed. NO EXCEPTIONS due to aircraft design and centre of gravity limits.
Please arrive 15-20 minutes before your flight for orientation and briefing. Flights are scheduled throughout the day, so your flight may be cancelled or shortened if you arrive late.
No Show/Cancellation policy: No-shows or bookings cancelled within 24 hours of the flight are not eligible for refund. If you cannot make your flight time, please contact us and we will try and reschedule you. If weather or technical issues require VISC to cancel your flight, you are eligible for a full refund or we can reschedule you for a later day or time.
Weather and delays: We fly in a mountain valley and the weather can change quickly. If winds or weather are not within our safety limits for flying, your flight may be delayed or cancelled. We will try and notify you as early as possible about any possible issues and offer an opportunity to reschedule. Sometimes we just need to pause operations temporarily for weather to improve.
Looking for a custom flight, a full day of flying, or see a specific landmark while in the air? Get in touch and we will work to make it happen!
Have more questions? Our Frequently Asked Questions page may have the answer!
“Absolutely one of the best gifts I have ever had for my birthday. I am really afraid of heights but the staff, owners and pilots were absolutely fantastic…gliding down was like being on a big marshmallow floating thru the air.”
— Karen, Tripadvisor Review