Alpine Soaring

Wave Soaring Specialist

Harness mountain wave systems for altitude records, diamond badges, and long-distance flights.

Duration

1 week

Level

T2 Endorsed

Certification

Wave Endorsement

Course Overview

Wave soaring unlocks the highest altitudes achievable in a glider — cloud bases above 6,000 m are not uncommon in the Alps.

This specialist course covers wave mechanics, oxygen system use, airspace management, and high-altitude flight planning.

Designed for pilots pursuing FAI Diamond altitude or distance badges.

Course Syllabus

1

Wave Mechanics

Formation, rotor zones, lenticular clouds, forecasting tools.

2

Oxygen Systems

Pulse-demand systems, hypoxia recognition, emergency descent.

3

High-Altitude Airspace

Class C/D penetration permits, transponder requirements.

4

Task Planning

OLC submissions, FAI badge declarations, turn point verification.

5

Wave Flights

Dual and solo wave flights targeting altitude and distance goals.

Updated:

Requirements

  • Valid EASA SPL with T2 mountain endorsement
  • Minimum 50 hours solo PIC
  • Oxygen system training or willingness to learn
  • Full-time availability for 1 week

Investment

Course approximately €4,000–5,000 including accommodation, flying hours, and specialist instruction.

About the instructor

Yegor KanakhinFlight Instructor FI(S)