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How to Find a Used Sailplane

Sailplanes are unpowered gliders that utilize the lift of thermal currents to stay aloft. Modern sailplanes are constructed of aluminum or composite materials and aerodynamically designed for very high glide ratios. A typical sailplane trainer has a 30:1 glide ratio, meaning for every 30 feet of forward motion through the air it loses only 1 foot of altitude. Meeting Federal Aviation Administration regulations for obtaining a glider pilot's license is feasible for most people -- student glider pilots as young as 14 may go solo. European manufacturers, particularly German, dominate the sailplane market. In 2011, prices for a standard used sailplane range from $10,000 to $25,000. Used high-performance sailplanes, with glide ratios of 60:1, cost more than twice that amount.

Instructions

- 1
  Visit the Soaring Society of America website. With a membership exceeding 12,000, the SSA promotes soaring in the United States and around the world. The SSA website provides a clearinghouse of free soaring information for members and non-members, including sales and leasing of used sailplanes. The "Classifieds" link on the SSA website displays used sailplanes for sale by individuals and sailplane dealers, as well as marketers of sailplane trailers, avionics and instruction.
- 2
  Visit the Vintage Sailplane Association website. The Vintage Sailplane Association promotes the acquisition and ownership of vintage sailplanes. Its membership roster includes many with expertise in all facets of the ownership of used sailplanes. The Vintage Sailplane Association website includes a "Classifieds" link where used sailplanes are advertised. In addition, the VSA publishes a quarterly newsletter with contact information for people wishing to buy/sell used sailplanes.
- 3
  Consult the latest edition of "Soaring" magazine. The print publication of the Soaring Society of America, "Soaring" is the most widely distributed print periodical devoted to soaring in the world. The classified ads in "Soaring" provide the largest database of used sailplanes for sale. Potential buyers seeking a particular sailplane may also take out ads in "Soaring." Subscriptions to "Soaring" are included as part of the standard membership in the Soaring Society of America.

Aviation