Several airfields with ATZs in class G use instrument approach procedures (IAPs), which are designed to improve approach safety in poor weather, at night, etc. However, these IAPs are frequently utilised during fine weather in daylight by commercial pilot training organisations as well as by commercial business jet operators. The…

The risk of mid-air collision remains high for Class G airspace users, despite such advances as the carriage and use of electronic conspicuity devices. Although it is five years since the last fatal mid-air collision in the UK and longer since a mid air collision involving a glider in the…

Wake vortices are generated by aircraft including helicopters operating at high angle of attack, eg on takeoff and landing. Large GA aircraft can produce significant wake vortices. The heavier an aircraft, and the slower it is flying, the stronger its vortex and the greater the risk to following aircraft. The…

The BGA ‘Managing Flying Risk’ publication aims to provide pilots and clubs with guidance on how to better understand, minimise, and manage the hazards associated with gliding operations, including with powered gliders and tug aircraft. It does not replace any existing law, which should always take precedent. There is a…

Several airfields with ATZs in class G use instrument approach procedures. In most cases, the procedures are not obviously apparent from using a 1/2 mil VFR chart. Procedure details can be found in the AIP here under ‘Part 3 AD2 aerodromes’. Which isn’t easily accessible but can be useful information….

BGA safety briefings ‘Is your glider fit for flight?’ and the ‘2022 Accident Review’ are available as downloads and Club Safety Officers are invited to request hard copies for their club from the BGA office. Other BGA safety briefings are available here.  

Incomplete or incorrect rigging of gliders is a significant risk; the outcome is usually a serious injury or a fatality. The BGA has published new safety information that includes a ‘toolbox’ of suggested actions that clubs as well as pilots and owners can take to help to avoid a glider…

Failure to recognise and react promptly to a significant wing drop during a launch ground roll can result in an accident. The published advice is Start the launch with your hand on the release If you cannot keep the wings level, release IMMEDIATELY “Release IMMEDIATELY” means BEFORE the wing touches…

The BGA receives a steady trickle of reports of gliders being damaged when tow-out gear fails or becomes detached. Fittings can sustain damage or are allowed to deteriorate, which reduces their strength and durability. Now’s a great time to check to the structures and fittings for damage, wear and distortion,…

The BGA Safety Leaflet ‘Is your glider fit for flight?’ was first published in 2015, updated in 2018, and further updated in January 2023. All glider pilots are encouraged to read the leaflet which can be viewed here.