INITIAL GLIDER TRAINING TO PRIVATE PILOT RATING 
COURSE SUMMARY

The training program leading to an FAA Glider Private Pilot Certificate with Silent Wings Soaring is divided into three phases:

Phase I.   Initial Training To Solo - Ground and flight training leading to solo flight in a glider.  A 25-lesson syllabus that covers the material required by Federal Aviation Regulations is provided to guide the instructor and student through the training. Emphasis is on obtaining flight skills and academic knowledge that will lead to a solo endorsement in the student’s logbook.  Solo flight endorsement will be provided when the student has consistently demonstrated to the flight instructor a satisfactory level of proficiency, skill and knowledge, completed a written exam for solo flight and has obtained an FAA Student Pilot Certificate.  The completion of 25 lessons is not a guarantee that a solo endorsement will be obtained. The SGS 2-33 and SGU 2-22 gliders are used for flight training.  It normally takes 25 lessons to introduce and practice all the FAA required materials.  Each student learns at a different rate.  The national average is 25 to 35 lessons before solo flight proficiency is obtained.

Phase II.  Post Solo, Single Seat Checkout, FAA Knowledge Test - Post solo flight training to gain experience and proficiency in all flight maneuvers and practice thermaling skills.  Spin entry and recovery training prior to single seat checkout. Complete written exams and single seat check out in the SGS 1-26 glider to expand body of flight experience and knowledge.  Solo flight closely observed by flight instructor and post flight critiques provided.  Student flys under varying wind and weather conditions to build confidence and experience.  Fly required number of flights and hours that meet FAA experience requirements.   Intermittent flights with instructor to review progress.  During off-season attend ground school in preparation for the FAA Knowledge Test.  Successfully complete the FAA Knowledge Test.

Phase III.  Complete FAA Flight Requirements For Practical Test, Prepare For Oral Exam, Obtain FAA Private Pilot Certificate - Flight training continues to complete FAA requirements. Intermittent flights with instructor to review progress.  Three flights with an instructor within 60 days prior to the flight check are required.  Use checklists to assure that all requirements of CFRs are completed.  Preparation for oral portion of practical test with FAA Glider Instructor providing preparation, review, and practice using the FAA PTS booklet as a guide.  Complete record review, oral exam, and flight check with FAA Examiner (Practical Test).  When this phase is complete you will have an FAA Glider Private Pilot Certificate.

Progress in this training program is dependent upon frequency of training, weather and equipment availability.  Each phase of training has fees associated with rental of gliders and instructors.  Classroom training in preparation for the FAA Knowledge Test and The FAA Practical Test are paid by the hour or by the course.  Written materials including syllabuses, texts, and books are required during each phase of training.  Fees are charged for tests required by the FAA.