Adventure
1902 Wright Glider Experience
1902 Wright Glider Experience is one of Kitty Hawk Kites' signature hang gliding experiences in Nags Head, NC. It's a strong fit for guests looking for flight experiences and groups.
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Starting At
$399 +6% Online Convenience Fee
Duration
4 hours
Best For
History & Local Culture, Flight Experiences, Thrill Seekers
Location
Hang Gliding SchoolAdventure Overview
Wright Glider Experience on Jockey's Ridge
Looking to make history while you’re on the Outer Banks? Fly a reproduction of the Wright Brother’s 1902 Glider! This replica was built by the Wright Experience and is one of a few in existence.
Looking to make history while you’re on the Outer Banks? Fly a reproduction of the Wright Brothers’ 1902 Glider! This replica was built by the Wright Experience and is one of a few in existence. It’s also the only one of its kind available for the public to fly. The 1902 Wright Glider replica is museum quality and allows participants to experience exactly what the Wright Brothers felt as they prepared for their historic flight of the first powered plane in 1903. Your 5 flights over the Dunes will be just like the Wright Brothers. And you’ll be one of the few in the world to ever fly this glider just as the Wright Brothers did (even at the same location) over 100 years ago!
$5 OFF!
Save $5 person when you book for Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday
Weight Limit is set at 200lbs
Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
Review some commonly asked questions so you know before you go.
What is the Wright Glider Experience? +
The Wright Glider Experience allows you to fly a reproduction of the 1902 Wright Glider, just as the Wright Brothers did over 100 years ago! Built by the Wright Experience, this museum-quality replica lets you feel what the Wright Brothers experienced as they prepared for their historic flight in 1903. You’ll soar 5-15 feet above the ground, flying about 50 yards with the wind beneath your wings—just like the pioneers of flight!
Where does the experience take place? +
The flights take place over the dunes of Jockey’s Ridge State Park, which is the perfect location for this historic adventure. After your experience, you can visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial to learn more about the history of flight and see where the Wright Brothers made their famous powered flights in 1903.
When is the experience available? +
We offer the Wright Glider Experience year-round, but the best flying conditions are typically found in the fall, winter, and spring when winds are most consistent. We schedule clinics during these months, but if you can’t make the clinic dates, we can also arrange custom dates for groups of 3 or more. We encourage flexibility, as wind conditions are essential for safe and enjoyable flights.
What kind of wind conditions are required? +
The Wright Glider requires winds between 15-25 mph for optimal flying conditions. This is typical for the Outer Banks, but wind conditions can be unpredictable. Because the glider experience depends on suitable weather, we encourage you to be flexible with your schedule. Keep in mind, ideal winds may occur a day before or after your scheduled clinic.
How many flights will I take? +
Each participant takes 5 flights during their Wright Glider Experience, with each flight lasting between 10-15 feet off the ground and covering a distance of about 50 yards.
What is included? +
- Ground School: Before flying, you’ll receive a briefing that includes glider orientation, controls, and history of the Wright Brothers and their flight legacy.
- Flights: You’ll take 5 flights, each tethered to ensure safety.
- Safety Gear: All participants are provided with necessary safety equipment.
Are photos or video available? +
Kitty Hawk Kites offers GoPro footage of your lesson so that you can relive this memory for years to come. We film each flight you take above the dunes of Jockey’s Ridge State Park. Within 48 hours of your lesson all of your flight footage plus at least 50 to 100 fully edited digital photos of your 1902 Wright Glider Experience will be emailed to you.
How do I book the experience? +
All bookings must go through the Hang Gliding School at 252-441-2426. You can schedule your experience over the phone or inquire about specific dates, availability, and wind conditions.
Reservations Policy
Adventure Reservations Policies
We try to be as flexible as we possibly can to make your experience great, but please be mindful that we do have some policies that should be reviewed.
Accessibility
We are committed to making our activities as accessible as possible. While some activities may have limitations, we’re happy to work with you to explore accommodations. For assistance or questions, please contact us at (252) 441-4124.