SPL Training — Stage 1: Toward First Solo
Duration
2 weeks
Level
Beginner
Certification
Stage 1/2 — Toward First Solo
Course Overview
This first course corresponds to Module 1 of the standard SPL training syllabus: Toward First Solo. It lays the foundations of visual glider piloting and takes you, step by step, to your first solo flight.
The training combines theory briefings (often on video), dual-instruction flights with an EASA-certified instructor, and progressive competency-based learning: flying skills, procedures, radio communication, situational awareness, workload management and decision-making. On-site accommodation in Vinon-sur-Verdon allows for full immersion in the programme.
By the end of this course, you will be able to fly solo, within the airfield's local area, safely and independently — your gateway to Stage 2, which leads to the full SPL licence.
Course Syllabus
Welcome and First Contact
Introduction to the activity, the club and the cockpit. Visual references, primary effects of the controls, cockpit setup and safety briefing.
Basic Flying
Mastering straight flight, medium-bank turns and visualising the landing point along the flight path. *(Progress checkpoint 1)*
Elementary Soaring
Attitude–flight path–speed relationship, trimming, symmetric flight, slow flight and stalling, elementary climbing (thermal and ridge soaring), local-area transition flying. *(Progress checkpoint 2)*
Launch Method
Take-off and procedures by aerotow and/or winch launch: circuit joining, release, handling launch abnormalities.
Approach and Landing
Use of airbrakes, building an L-shaped circuit, final approach, landing and roll-out in safety.
Advanced Safety and First Solo
Steep turns, spiral dive, incipient spin — and then the big day: your first solo flight.
Updated:
Requirements
- Minimum age: 14 for solo flight, 16 for the licence itself
- Valid medical certificate (self-declaration or Class 2/LAPL medical, as applicable)
- No prior flying experience required
- Full-time availability for 2 complete weeks
Investment
Annual membership fee for the gliding club €370; French Gliding Federation licence €198; Simulator session €12.0 / hour (6 hours) €72; Hire of an ASK21 training glider €33.0 / hour (13 hours) €374; Tow by aeroplane €4.35 / min. (40 × 10 mins) €1,740; Personal flight instructor services: €250–300 per flying day.