Obtain Your Sailplane Pilot Licence (SPL)

The Sailplane Pilot Licence (SPL) is your gateway to the exciting world of gliding. It allows you to act as pilot-in-command of sailplanes, provided you hold the appropriate ratings, in non commercial operations.

With this licence, you will experience the purest form of aviation, using natural air currents to stay aloft, enhance your precision flying and decision-making skills, and enjoy a unique connection with the surrounding environment.

Course description

Whether you wish to fly for leisure or are taking your first steps into the world of aviation, the Sailplane Pilot Licence (SPL) Course offers a unique gateway to the purest form of flying.

This training takes place in the exceptional setting of La Cerdanya, a region renowned throughout Europe for its outstanding gliding conditions. Thanks to its unique geography and favourable weather patterns, it is considered one of the best locations to learn and develop soaring skills.

The course provides a highly rewarding learning experience, as it not only equips you with the fundamental competencies required for flight but also develops key skills such as energy management, decision-making, and an advanced understanding of meteorology. Throughout the programme, you will combine theoretical instruction with a minimum number of practical flight hours in a sailplane.

In addition, you will have the opportunity to specialise in disciplines such as cross-country soaring, mountain flying, and even competition flying, taking full advantage of the unique environment of the Pyrenees. Flying in La Cerdanya means learning to use thermals, ridge lift, and mountain waves in real high-mountain conditions.

Finally, the SPL can serve as an excellent first step towards other aviation licences. The knowledge and skills acquired through gliding provide a solid foundation that greatly facilitates progression to powered aircraft, allowing you to continue your aviation training and develop your career with a distinctive and highly valuable background.

Structure

The course consists of two phases: a Theoretical Phase and a Flight Training Phase, the contents of which are detailed below. Candidates must successfully pass the examinations of the Theoretical Phase before being eligible to undertake the Flight Training Skill Test.

The Theoretical Training Phase consists of the following subjects:

  • Air Law
  • Aircraft General Knowledge
  • Flight Performance and Planning
  • Navigation
  • Operational Procedures
  • Human Performance and Limitations
  • Meteorology
  • Communications
  • Principles of Flight

The practical training course consists of a minimum of 15 hours of flight instruction, including either a 50 km cross-country flight as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) or a 100 km cross-country flight conducted under dual instruction, as well as a minimum of 45 launches. Flight training is carried out using two-seat sailplanes. The flight instruction time specified above represents the minimum requirement established by the Spanish Aviation Safety and Security Agency (AESA).

Duration

The course duration is approximately 2 months, and it allows students to combine the Theoretical Training Phase with the Flight Training Phase. However, the total time required to obtain the licence depends on the time available and the number of examination sessions needed to pass the different subject exams and the flight test. As a result, the overall duration typically ranges between 3 and 6 months.

Requirements

Applicants for this licence must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum age of 16 years, if the applicant is a minor, authorisation from the person holding parental responsibility or legal guardianship is required, duly certified by a notary.
  • Hold a valid Class 2 Aeromedical Certificate.

Would you like to become a sailplane pilot?

Call us at 937 101 290 or use the contact form to find out how L’Aeroclub can help you turn your dream into reality.