SFCL.130 SPL – Training course and experience requirements

Applicants for an SPL shall complete a training course at an ATO or a DTO. [Editorial note: “or a DTO” will be replaced by “, a DTO, or a Gliding Club” on 15 September 2025] The course shall be tailored to the privileges sought and shall include:

1. theoretical knowledge as specified in point SFCL.135;

2. at least 15 hours of flight instruction in sailplanes, including at least:

   1. 10 hours of dual flight instruction which shall include the dual flight instruction as specified in paragraphs (iv)(A) or (v)(A), as applicable;

   2. two hours of supervised solo flight time;

   3. 45 launches or take-offs and landings;

   4. if privileges for sailplanes, excluding TMGs, are sought, at least seven hours of flight instruction in sailplanes, excluding TMGs, and including at least:

      1. three hours of dual flight instruction;

      2. either:

         1. one solo cross-country flight of at least 50 km (27 NM); or

         2. one dual cross-country flight of at least 100 km (55 NM) which, by way of derogation from paragraph (2)(iv), may be completed in a TMG;

   5. if privileges for TMGs are sought, at least six hours of flight instruction in TMGs, including at least:

      1. four hours of dual flight instruction;

      2. one solo cross-country flight of at least 150 km (80 NM) in a TMG, during which one full-stop landing at an aerodrome different from the aerodrome of departure shall be performed.

Applicants who hold a pilot licence for another category of aircraft, with the exception of balloons licence, shall be credited with 10 % of total flight time as PIC on such aircraft and up to a maximum of seven hours. The amount of credit given shall in any case:

1. not include the requirements of paragraphs (a)(2)(ii), (a)(2)(iv)(B) and (a)(2)(v)(B); and

2. with regard to paragraph (a)(2)(iii), not exceed 10 launches or take-offs and landings.