Please note that the number of SPL conversion applications now being submitted as the 30th September approaches is resulting in a slower turnaround than previously experienced. Please expect applications to take four weeks. Please also note that the CAA cannot release SPLs that include BI(S) privileges until the law change…

There are several SFCL related FAQs available here for pilots, instructors and CFIs. The FAQs will be updated as required.

The recently published Electronic Conspicuity (EC) Concept of Operations (ConOps) document outlines the CAA’s strategic approach to implementing EC technologies within UK airspace. The main themes and key details from the document are: Purpose and Scope The document supports the UK Airspace Modernisation Strategy (AMS) and focuses on enabling safe…

The CAA has published revised Acceptable Means of Compliance (AMC) and Guidance Material (GM) relating to the Sailplane Flight Crew Licensing (SFCL) requirements in anticipation of a secondary legislation update to Part SFCL on the 15th September, which will be followed by a requirement to be compliant with Part SFCL…

As previously reported, changes to UK SFCL have been proposed that are expected to be confirmed in law later this summer. One of those changes is the inclusion of a Basic Instructor (Sailplanes) rating. The BGA sailplane pilot licence conversion application forms have been updated, approved, and republished. To help…

Effective immediately, two frequencies, 123.065 MHz and 123.135 MHz, have been assigned for air-to-air communication for General Aviation. These channels are intended for sharing important safety information in situations where pilots are operating without ATC or FIS support. They can be used for: sharing weather-related information coordinating formation flights flights…

Pilots who are using the privileges of an SPL, for example for TMG or Self-Launch, are reminded of the need to comply with the recency requirements. SPL including SPL TMG recency requirements are detailed at SFCL.160. Self launch recency requirements (additional to SPL recency requirements) are detailed at SFCL.155. You…

In March 2024, the CAA launched a 10-week public consultation seeking stakeholder views on proposed changes to licences and ratings across the GA aircraft categories. There was a strong response from the sailplane community. As a result, working with the BGA, the CAA has made several proposals to Government to…

CAA Skywise provides updates via a free email subscription service on various aspects of CAA regulated activity including temporary airspace restrictions. There is a category titled ‘Gliding’. You can read more and subscribe here. Please note that Skywise content does not remove the obligation to check NOTAMs before flight.

As previously reported, in the interests of simplification, the CAA has proposed several amendments to Part-SFCL implementing rules that are currently being reviewed in Government ahead of an anticipated law change. Aviation law is essentially in two layers; ‘hard law’, which as noted above is approved by the elected Government…