Who can learn it?
Basically anyone. The minimum age to start training is 14 years. As long as you meet the medical requirements, you can continue to fly.
MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
Glider pilots must meet European regulations on medical fitness (“Class 2 Certificate”). Those who are healthy and fit meet these. Wearing glasses or lenses is allowed.
However, a medical certificate is not required to apply for a practice licence and start training. However, you must have a medical certificate before conducting your first solo flight.
Medical examinations are conducted by Aero Medical Examiners (AMEs), who are recognised by the Directorate General of Aviation. The clubs can inform you how the examination is conducted and have an address list.
How much does it cost?
A budget of around €1000 a year will get you a long way. So for the cost of a week’s skiing holiday, you can glide for a whole year!
The price varies from club to club. You pay the annual membership fee and in some clubs a contribution for the use of the airfield. You also pay another fee per tow or winch start, and the rental of the glider. League instructors are free.
You also pay a contribution to the federation for collective sports insurance, administrative costs for training and licences, a contribution to the general operation of the national secretariat and committees, and membership of the Royal Belgian Aeroclub.
Gliding is the most budget-friendly flying sport! Those in charge of the club in your area can give you more information about their rates.
What about training?
In principle, you can start your glider training as early as today! You also don’t need to take theory yet to start flying. After a safety briefing, your instructor will show you around the airfield. He will also explain how to prepare your aircraft at the start of the flying day and do the daily inspection.
Then the lesson flights can begin where you will experience the principles of aerodynamics for yourself. You will first learn to fly straight, make turns, circle in thermals, etc. You will always have the control stick in your hands.
After about 30 to 50 lesson flights, the moment comes when the instructor says: “Now you do it alone!”, and you get to make your first solo flight. You will remember this moment for a long time!
Flying solo does not mean you already get a glider licence: for that, you first have to pass a theoretical exam and make a distance flight of 50km.
After the practical exam with a Flight Examiner, you can apply for your gliding licence. Depending on the licence applied for, it is valid throughout Europe (LAPL(S)), or worldwide (SPL).