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How to Land a Glider

Glider flight, also called soaring, involves a trained pilot who flies a non-powered aircraft. The pilot uses rising hot air masses to remain aloft and maneuver through the skies. Many experienced pilots stay aloft for hours by hopping from one hot air mass, or thermal, to another. Glider landings require planning and skill, and can be intimidating to the beginner. Unlike powered aircraft, a glider cannot abort a landing and try it a second time. The pilot has only one chance to land the glider safely.

Instructions

- 1
  Perform the pre-landing checklist specific to your glider.
- 2
  Lower the landing gear. Lock the gear in the "DOWN" position.
- 3
  Adjust your airspeed to match the proper approach. Obtain this information from the pilot's operating handbook.
- 4
  Adjust the glider's pitch trim as required. This allows you to fly the approach speed with the control stick in the "NEUTRAL" position.
- 5
  Test the airbrakes' operation. Extend the airbrakes and ensure they operate and stow properly.
- 6
  Transmit your landing intentions to your destination airport. Use a VHF radio tuned to the airport's proper frequency. Listen for other aircraft transmissions and carefully note each aircraft's intentions.
- 7
  Watch for other aircraft in the air and on the runway. Check the wind direction by looking at the airport's windsock.
- 8
  Fly the airport's traffic pattern. Enter the downwind leg parallel to the runway. Fly with the wind at an altitude no less than 1,000 feet above ground level, or AGL. Turn to the base leg, perpendicular to the runway at an altitude of 500 feet AGL. Turn into the final leg. Fly into the wind, and line the glider up with the runway.
- 9
  Maintain your approach speed. Use the airbrakes to maintain your glide path.
- 10
  Pull the control stick back slightly when you are 1 to 2 feet above the runway.
- 11
  Continue to control the glider by using the aileron to keep the wings level. Use the rudder to keep the glider centered on the runway.
- 12
  Exit the glider safely. Pull the glider off the runway so other aircraft may land.

Aviation