Glider-Pilot License (GPL) from Scratch

Getting a GPL from scratch is a significant, but doable, undertaking. The key to success is that you have to

• study to pass the exams (PSTAR, ROC-A, and GLIDE), and

• fly frequently to build skill (ideally multiple times a week).

Age

You must be at least 14 years old to solo and 16 years to license.

Medical

Instructional flights do not require a medical. Soloing requires a category 4 of higher. This is obtained with a simple declaration in most cases. Transport Canada processing time is 60 days, so do this at the start.

Training and study

Minimum (most will require more) flight training time is 6+ hrs including

• 1+ hrs of dual flight training, and

• 2+ hrs and 20+ solo flights.

Soloing requires 90% on the PSTAR (multiple choice exam on pre-supplied regulations questions) so our AP can issue a student pilot permit (SPP). We require this and an ROC-A exam to be done ASAP.

Ground school should start early as well. It is done online or through an in-person weekend course offered in early spring by glider clubs. Final licensing requires 60% on the Transport Canada GLIDE exam (ground school material) and passing the flight test with our instructors.

Our AP will help with the paperwork and issue temporary privileges at the end so you can immediately fly as a licensed glider pilot.