Glider Operations, Launch Procedures, and Soaring Techniques
Launch and soaring questions test procedure and judgment: what signal means what, what to do when the rope breaks, and how to work lift efficiently.
Aerotow
- The glider sits behind and below the towplane; the glider pilot rocks the wings to request release, and a wing rock from the towplane means release now or acknowledges the signal.
- Fly slightly high of the wake (high tow) or slightly low (low tow), never directly in the prop wash. Slack rope, kiting, and pilot-induced oscillation are corrected with smooth, small inputs.
- After release, turn as briefed (typically right) and clear for other traffic.
Ground launches
- Winch and auto launches use standardized signals: take up slack, all out, and stop. Release if the cable or rope breaks, if the launch is abnormal, or if you cannot get the nose down.
- A rope break below about 200 ft means lower the nose, release, and land straight ahead with minimal turning; above that altitude, a turn to crosswind or downwind may be possible if the field and altitude allow.
Working lift
- Thermal at 30-45 degrees of bank near the best climb speed; steepen in strong lift, flatten in weak lift, and drift with the wind to stay centered.
- On a ridge, fly close enough to use the lift but keep an escape route and stay clear of the rotor on the lee side.
- In wave, fly upwind of the lenticular and watch oxygen, temperature, and the cloud clearance limits.
Worked example
On aerotow at 300 ft AGL the rope breaks. The runway has 3,000 ft remaining ahead and the terrain is flat. The decision is to pitch to best glide, release the rope, and land straight ahead on the remaining runway, turning only enough to align with the centerline. A 180-degree turn at 300 ft is not an option, however inviting the field behind looks.
Traps that cost marks
Turning back after a low rope break; forgetting to release the rope; misreading the release signal; and thermalling too steeply at too slow a speed, which invites an accelerated stall.