How to learn to fly a glider: a step-by-step guide

2.Booking time slots for 2 weeks

3.Arrival and accommodation: club hotel rates range from 30 to 55 euros per room.

4.SPL Module 1: simulator training and circuit flying on an ASK21 glider: CursusSPL2021.pdf

5.Medical examination: carried out directly at the airfield in 30 minutes (Dr JEAN-FRANCOIS BRACON make an appointment: 06 78 78 60 86)

6.Modules 6 and 8 of the theory exam

7.Solo flight: barbecue afterwards and the first bucket of water over your head.

8.SPL Modules 2 and 3 following the French Gliding Federation’s methodology: CursusSPL2021.pdf

9.Theory exam: 75% correct answers across all 9 modules, taken at the club

10.Completion of training; submission of an application for the practical exam to the DGAC, 10 days later:

11.Practical exam: barbecue, congratulations from club members, ‘T0’ flight zone

12.10 hours on the ASK23 glider and you’ll be qualified to fly the 15-metre LS4 glider

13.Training to qualify for ‘T1’ flight zone, aim: FAI Silver Badge (50 km route)

14.Removal of passenger-carrying restrictions from your SPL licence (flight with an instructor)

15.Start of training on the TMG motor glider: SF25 Falke

16.Flight hours required to qualify for ‘T2’ flight zone, objective: FAI gold badge (300 km route)

17.You have logged 100 hours on the 15m LS4 and have been granted a licence to fly the 18m LS8 glider!

18.You have flown 30 hours on the 18m LS8 glider – training on gliders with flaps: Ventus 2, LS6

19.Flight experience required to qualify for ‘T3’ flight zone, aim: FAI gold badge with diamonds (500 km route)

20.Booking flight slots in Namibia from November to February.