A transponder code (0034) has been approved for use for sailplane towing. Any transponder equipped aircraft conducting towing operations can use it in the course of towing, including descending after the tow, etc. If crossing controlled airspace while towing (eg class D or E), a pilot may be asked to…

The fast developing COVID19 situation may result in instructors not being able to meet recency and refresher requirements when revalidating their BGA instructor ratings. The BGA will ensure that alternative arrangements for those BGA instructors are in place over the coming weeks and certainly by the time gliding is able…

Due to the fast-developing COVID19 situation, the BGA regrets that with immediate effect, all BGA courses and seminars will be indefinitely postponed. We will aim to deliver as many courses and seminars as possible as soon as the situation changes. We are assessing the possibility of delivering some online training….

The Honourable Company of Air Pilots and the BGA are working together to provide funding for a number of young gliding instructor training bursaries. These bursaries are available to help glider pilots under the age of 25 on application to qualify as either a Basic Instructor or Assistant Instructor. Full…

The CAA has re-issued its exemption authorising glider towing with UK National Permit to Fly aircraft. Please view the exemption here.

As reported in previous years, the ‘Skyway Code’ is a CAA published guide for pilots that is designed to provide easy, quick access to the key information they need, including: pilot responsibilities, flight planning, airspace rules and regulations, using aerodromes, risks and emergencies, flying outside the UK, and links to…

‘Gliding Basics’ leaflets have been published which aim to support student pilots as they progress towards solo. You can view the leaflets here. Pilots who are studying for the Bronze and Cross-Country endorsements are advised to refer to study material linked to the Bronze theoretical knowledge syllabus – details are…

RAF Little Rissington, located to the north of the Brize Norton zone, is active on weekends with Air Cadet winch launched gliding and otherwise as NOTAMed for military parachuting and transport aircraft operations. An Air Cadet squadron on site flies Grob Acros as part of 2 Flying Training School (2…

Tim Newport Peace has published the 2019 BGA Waypoint List at http://www.newportpeace.co.uk/turningpoints.htm.

Pilots training for the NPPL/PPL(A) who are members of BGA clubs, who have completed the required ground study, and who are deemed ready to take the CAA’s NPPL/PPL Theoretical Knowledge Examinations can apply to sit the exams at the BGA office. Please note that all sittings will be by appointment…