Introduction to Gliding – Online Classes

Service Description

SOSA’s Introduction to Gliding classes are the perfect start to your glider pilot training. Scheduled to coincide with the start of the gliding season, they provide a foundational understanding of the theory and logistics that will support your early flying training at the field. Participants will learn what gliding is all about, what to expect during flying training, and what it's like to be a member of the SOSA gliding community. The material covered qualifies for 8 hours of ground school instruction, which is half of the requirement for the Glider Pilot License. The second half is available after beginning your in-flight training. Class participants will also be welcomed to SOSA for an in-person orientation session, facilities tour, and Q&A session on May 3, 2025. Scheduling of in-person activities may be subject to change based on the weather. Participants are also welcome to join their classmates and existing SOSA members via our online discussion platform (Slack) for the duration of the course. ​ Please be advised that anyone looking to pursue a Glider Pilot License must meet certain criteria as outlined by Transport Canada. For a Student Pilot Permit during flight training, Transport Canada requires that you provide a declaration of your medical fitness before flying solo without an instructor. If you have experienced any of their listed conditions from the above form, then you would also require a certificate from a Transport-Canada approved Aviation Medical Examiner to confirm your fitness. Topics covered - What gliders can do – the power and adventure of zero emissions flight - Human factors - Aerodrome operations - Aircraft structures and systems - Flight instruments - Sailplane performance - Handling ground movements - Signals - Launching - Theory of flight - Effects of controls - What to expect on your first flight Costs and Credits - The online class is $350 (including HST). - Upon completion of the class, you will receive a certificate confirming that you have completed 8 hours of the 15 hour Transport Canada ground school requirement. - If you join SOSA as a member before June 1, 2025 you will receive a $100 credit towards your 2025 membership fees. - Registration and payment for the Intro to Gliding online class must be completed no later than March 30, 2025.