How Much Will it Cost to Get My Glider License?

If you are a current airplane pilot, the typical cost is $3,000-$5,000.  If you have never flown before, it will cost $7,000-$11,000.

What Do I Have to Do to Get my Glider License?

If you are a licensed pilot, you will need at least 10 solo flights in gliders, a total of 3 hours flight time in gliders, and a minimum of 3 flights with an instructor in preparation for the practical test.  It may take as few as 5 or as many as 40 flights to solo.  The regulations specify certain items that you must be trained on prior to solo.

If you do not have a pilot’s license, you will need at least 20 flights in gliders, including at least 10 solo flights totaling at least 2 hours of flight time. It typically takes 20-50 flights to solo. The regulations specify certain items that you must be trained on prior to solo.  You also must pass a knowledge test of 60 questions with a score of 70% or better. Preparation for the knowledge test will require a significant amount of self-study.

After completing your solo flights, you will typically need 5-10 flights with an instructor to prepare for your practical test.  The test consists of an oral examination and 3 flights.  In addition to the flying, you will do ground training with our instructors and you will need to spend time studying on your own. 

Is It Safe?

Yes, it is safe. Since gliders do not have an engine, there is less that can go wrong.