Learning to fly!
The BGA and it’s member clubs operate a training organisation to help to ensure safe and good quality flying training is provided within a fun and supportive environment.
The first step to learning to fly is to find a gliding club and to experience gliding. If you want to do more and learn to fly, the club will be pleased to offer you pilot training towards obtaining a Sailplane Pilot Licence!
Glider pilots learn to fly at their club in dual control two-seat gliders with qualified instructors following the SPL training course. This syllabus will take you right from the earliest stages through to becoming a licensed glider pilot. The training can be intensive or spread over many weeks and months as suits individual needs.
The first phase of the training prepares you for your first solo flight and gaining the BGA Gliding Certificate. Please note that to fly solo, you will need to be able to declare your fitness to fly. Once solo, you can qualify for several of the Sporting Badges & Diplomas.
When you’ve completed your SPL training course, you’ll be independently assessed following which you can apply for your Sailplane Pilot Licence (known as an SPL)! Once you hold an SPL, there are other great gliding opportunities that you can choose to take part in, including aerobatics, cross-country soaring, flying with passengers, instructing, and flying in gliding competitions.
Key Resources
The BGA Student Pilot Manual is a must have for anyone learning to glide
The Sailplane Pilot Licence (SPL)