Chapter 9 Soaring Weather Introduction Glider pilots face a multitude of decisions, starting with the  decision to take to the air. Pilots must determine if weather  conditions are safe, and if current conditions support a  soaring flight. Gliders, being powered by gravity, are always  sinking through the air. Therefore, glider pilots must seek  air that rises faster than the sink rate of the glider to enable  prolonged flight. Glider pilots refer to rising air as lift, not  to be confused with the lift created by the wing.