TEHACHAPI, Calif. -- While most people have experienced flying in a plane, most have not experienced flying in a plane with no engine.

But that is just what you will get on a glider flight at Mountain Valley Airport.

Sailplanes allow riders to fly through the skies without an engine which can be thrilling but also peaceful while you take in the sights from high above the ground.

Mountain Valley Airport owner Jane Barrett said, "Some people are a little bit anxious about it. They’re afraid of what it’s like if you don’t have an engine, but most people are just exhilarated. It's something so unusual and something so spectacular, that everybody says it’s the closest thing there is to flying like a bird.”

And while flying without an engine could be a concern for some folks, it is all certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.

“These are all FAA certified aircraft, all of the pilots are FAA certified pilots, you know, there are very stringent requirements, rules, and regulations. It’s very, very safe. You know, the gliders fly with the same principles, we just use the raising and falling air instead of an engine,” said Barrett.

In order to get off the ground a tow plane connects to the sailplane using a 200-foot rope, but once you reach your desired altitude, you pull the yellow knob releasing you from the tow plane.

From there you will be gliding back down to earth.

Flight instructor Paul Corbett said, "We’re going to glide all the way back down to the ground, and we can control the speed at which we do that, and it’s perfectly safe, you don’t need an engine to fly.”

There are not age requirements to fly in a sailplane at Mountain Valley Airport, but you have to weigh at least 60 pounds, and no more then 240.

You also have to be able to take direction.

The airport offers three different flights, ranging from a 10-minute ride at 1,000 feet to a 30-minute flight at 4,000 feet.

Corbett said, "The least expensive ride is our Granny Sleigh Ride, which is for the people who are a little but concerned about flying in an aircraft without an engine, but want to give it a try, just not stay up there too long.”

But regardless of what flight you chose, you’ll be in for a thrilling ride with fantastic views as you soar through the skies.

Barrett said, "People can get their hands on the controls, fly it themselves. Get a chance to really feel what it’s like or just enjoy it, sit back and relax."

If you would like more information or to make reservations you can call Mountain Valley Airport at 661-822-5267.