London
Gliding Club
Flying Operations - Local
Regulations
Table of Contents
Introduction (revision May 2014)
In everyday life we are governed by increasing numbers of rules
that often seem un-necessary and overbearing. We like to escape from these
pressures in our spare time and if we find yet another excess of rules, the
refreshing quality of our pursuit is lost. However, all games need rules if the
players are to achieve a satisfactory, safe outcome and in our sport this is
especially so. Flying demands an extra quality in those that practise it, one
that rules and regulations cannot instil self-discipline. It is self-discipline
that makes our sport safe and this is more important that rules per se, which
should be kept to a minimum.
It is against
this background that the LGC Operational Rules are set. The "thou shall
not" rules are kept to a minimum and hopefully the reasons for those that
do exist will be self-evident. For the majority, the exercising of self-discipline
and common sense is all that is required; for the few, these guide lines will
help them become worthy of the title, Pilot.
The Chief
Flying Instructor, London Gliding Club.
Before commencing the training programme, student pilots must be a
member of the club. They must sign a declaration of physical fitness,
undertaking to inform the club of any change in his or her medical status. This
self-declaration must be countersigned by the pilots General Practitioner.
Appropriate forms are available from the BGA web site or the club office.
Members of affiliated BGA clubs may receive instruction by paying a daily fee.
Pre-solo check card. Before flying solo, students must
demonstrate a high standard in the subjects listed on the pre-solo check card.
The order in which the exercises appear on the card does not necessarily
represent the order of progression through the training programme. The card
must be kept with the student’s logbook to be available to instructors before
flying. The card is used in conjunction with the log book entries to help
instructors assess student progress.
A
sound knowledge of the rules of the air is essential and all pilots should possess
an up to date copy of the BGA publication, laws and rules for glider
pilots. This publication can also be downloaded from the BGA web site in
pdf format. A THOROUGH UNDERSTANDING OF THE LUTON AIRSPACE REGULATIONS IS
MANDATORY.
Each pilot must maintain an up to date logbook detailing each
flight made. Logbooks must be made available to instructors on request.
Each take-off and landing from the site must be logged on the
day's flying sheet. Each pilot is responsible for seeing that his or her
flight(s) are logged correctly. Once a pilot leaves the site he or she
deems log entries to be correct and he or she will be charged and must pay
accordingly. Maximum charges will be applied to incomplete log
entries.
The first solo session is flown in either an ASK 21 or ASK
23. Two seater assessment flights are required before each solo session
until completion of progress assessment 1 (See progress assessment and the post
solo training programme).
Progress
assessments. A series of progress assessments are required to progress
from stage to stage.
Progress
assessment 1. Assessment flights are required before every solo session
until progress assessment 1 is attained (See post solo to bronze badge notes
for details). Pilots apply for this assessment after a minimum of twenty
five launches or as recommended by an instructor. Assessment 1 is
conducted by the CFI, deputy CFI or a designated full rated instructor.
Progress
assessment 2. This is equivalent to and includes the bronze badge flight
test. It is usually conducted by the CFI, Deputy CFI or designated full rated
instructor.
Progress
Assessment 3. Required before approval is given to train for Basic or other
instructor rating. It is conducted only by the CFI or Deputy CFI.
Two-seater check flights are required before flying the first solo
winch launch. Pilots must demonstrate a good launching technique, cope with
launch failures at varying heights and posess an
understanding of the principles and theory of winch launching and the
importance of maximum launch speed and weak links.
Aerotow
Launching.
Two-seater check flights are required before flying a solo aerotow for the first time. Pilots must demonstrate good
launching technique, station keeping, have the maximum height above the tug
demonstrated, cope with launch failures. They must understand the various
signals between the glider and tug (see laws and rules 5.9. to 5.11.) and the
dangers of getting out of position particularly too high. The need to keep
ropes knot free and weak links in good order should also be understood.
The duty instructor may restrict solo flying when the weather
conditions make flying difficult. Individual pilots are responsible for
insuring they do not fly in the weather conditions that are outside their
experience level. Different coloured wind socks may be displayed at the Control
Tower to indicate experience levels required. Their meaning is:
Green
Windsock - PA1 pilots and above may fly
without check flights.
Yellow
Windsock - PA2 pilots and above may fly without check flights. PA1s require
briefing/check flight.
Red
Windsock - PA3 - Instructors only may fly without
briefing or check flights.
Aerial
Filming.
No aerial
filming is to take place in flights originating from Dunstable airfield without
the permission of the CFI, Chief Tug Pilot or the instructor in charge on the
day. It is not anticipated that reasonable requests will be denied but guidance
and advice may well be offered and some guidelines may be given which will be
strictly adhered to.
All pilots should have regard to the BGA advice on currency (see https://members.gliding.co.uk/library/safety/currency-barometer-pdf/
- copy on LGC Safety noticeboard.) To
fly Club owned gliders the 'advice' should be treated as mandatory.
In addition Solo Pilots who have passed Progress Assessment No.1
but are pre-Bronze (not passed Progress assessment No.2) and who have not flown
for a period of two months or more, must obtain a dual
check. After a break of this length instructors may, at their discretion,
revert pilots to pre-Progress Assessment 1 status.
Private owner/pilots are expected to use their discretion but
should use the BGA advice (above) as their guide, or refer to the instructor in
charge on the day.
Solo
flying in club gliders.
Glider types owned by the club are: the two-seat Duo Discus, K21,
K13, and the single seat K23, a high performance single seat glider , ASW24 for
cross country and competition flying and a Pilatus B4 for aerobatics use.
Pilatus
B4. This
glider is primarily for aerobatics use. Soaring fees are not capped at two
hours. Any solo full flying member of the club is cleared to fly if they have
been cleared to practise solo aerobatics. A briefing is required. All LGC
instructors are authorised to fly the Pilatus. This glider is normally kept
outside.
Gliders in
the Hangar and rigged may be considered to be airworthy in respect of Annual
Inspection, ARC, Insurance, Lifed items and Radio Licence
unless notified as U/S in the DI book.
The commander of a two-seater glider who only holds a P1 Rating
must fly the glider throughout the entire flight. Furthermore, if he flies with
a P2 who is not a joint owner of the glider he may not accept or demand payment
for the flight in any shape or form. Flying outside the limitations of this
rating may invalidate the glider’s insurance and expose all concerned to
possible litigation.
Privately owned two-seaters must be insured against third party
risks for at least £2,000,000. See- BGA Laws & Rules 1.8, 2.5, 6.8, and
7.4. Air Navigation Order in general and specifically Articles 23, 51,
90
Ground Handling of Club Aircraft
Moving club aircraft on the airfield requires a minimum of one
person when using the single-handed towing system. Two people if moved
by hand and three if towed by a vehicle using a rope.
Gliders are
to be withdrawn from the club hangar by hand only and taken off the apron for
Daily Inspection. Vehicles are not to be used to tow gliders out of the hangar.
Only approved persons may use the towing system. Approval is
obtained by attending a Daily Inspection Course, or by a briefing from an
instructor familiar with the equipment. Written information can be found in the
Post Solo Notes or obtained from the office.
When a glider is moved by hand the person in charge must ensure
that it is handled only by those parts of it strong enough for the purpose.
There must be one person on the into wind wing or as determined by the person
in charge of the aircraft.
When towing with a rope, the rope must be a minimum of 20 ft in length. One person must be stationed by the nose at
all times: this person is in command of the combination. An important
responsibility of the commander is to prevent overrunning on gentle slopes: it
is preferable to manhandle to glider on steep slopes. The wing tip holder is
responsible for steering under direction of the person in charge and is
stationed on the into wind wing. The driver of the towing vehicle must keep to
a steady walking pace, avoid sudden braking or acceleration and listen for
instructions from the commander. If the towing vehicle is a car the windows
should be open and the radio silent.
The person in charge of the glider in any of the above modes of
operation is responsible for the safety of the aircraft. It must not be towed
too fast, close to any other aircraft, across rough ground or in any way that
he knows, or ought reasonably to know, might cause it damage.
Gliders on the landing area must be retrieved without delay. They
must be towed back to the launch point by the shortest possible route keeping
clear of the take-off paths of other aircraft except when towing up the steep
slope of the gully. The combination must stop for gliders and tug aircraft
landing: it is not necessary to stop for aircraft taking off unless, by
continuing, the take-off path will be obstructed. Gliders being towed should
arrive at the launch point in such a way as not to delay launching or hazard
launching gliders. They should be towed to the rear of the launching grid.
Retrieve vehicle drivers must make adequate allowance for the wingspan of their
gliders when close to obstructions.
Gliders returning to the hangar or the trailer park must do so via
the launch point, keeping clear of take-off paths. Towing across winch cables
is prohibited.
Gliders not being flown must be securely parked well clear of the
launch point. A club glider is parked by positioning it across the wind such
that expected changes of wind direction come from aft of the wing. Gliders will
be parked with the into wind wing up and no tyres placed on the wing tips.
Further tyres are placed under the nose or by the tail and in front or behind
the main wheel to prevent the glider moving. In stronger winds more tyres are
required. In winds above 30 knots (20 knots in the case of the K13) gliders
should not be left unattended in the open. Private owners may park their
gliders as they see fit provided they do not hazard others.
When the glider is not parked as above it must be constantly
attended. When the glider is positioned across wind, the wing tip holder must
not leave the wing tip unattended. When the glider is positioned with the nose
in the intended take-off direction someone must be stationed by or in the
cockpit.
Canopies. Cockpit canopies are fragile and
expensive. Canopies must be opened fully to gain access to the towing cable
release. Reaching through the Direct Vision panel can result in damage if the
glider is suddenly jerked forward or towed over rough ground. Canopies on club
gliders are fitted with fingerplates to facilitate opening. When towing the
canopy should not be locked as releasing the tow rope in an emergency will be
delayed. The exception to this is when using the single-handed towing system.
In strong winds guard against the wind snatching the canopy open: the rear
cockpit canopies of K21s are particularly prone to damage in this way.
Private owners may handle their own glider as they see fit provided
this does not interfere with, or cause hazard to others.
Instructions for both launch methods are given via radio link. The
frequency used is 119.90. The frequency may only be used for launching and
airfield control purposes by Dunstable based stations. Only those members who
have been briefed on the radio procedure may operate the system. Only
instructors or duty pilots may giver these briefings.
Launch point radio operators must monitor the frequency closely to ensure that
winch and aerotow launches do not occur
simultaneously. Tug pilots and winch drivers are equally responsible for
monitoring the frequency to ensure winch and aerotow
launches do not occur simultaneously. All messages must be as brief as possible.
Pilots may not give their own launch instructions.
A Triangle Bat signalling system is used for aerotow
clearance on the Northeast run (see Northeast Run for details).
All movements on the operational areas of the airfield are under
the control of the Chief Flying Instructor or his nominated deputy.
Visitors. Members are required to assist
visitors and help ensure their safely. Visitors must be directed to the main
office reception before going onto the airfield.
Routes to launch points. All launch points are accessed
via the boundary of the airfield. Southwest, West and Northeast run access is
via the Southeast (hill) boundary, east run via north boundary. Movement to and
from launch points must be as close to the boundary as possible. Movement on
the landing area other than by aircraft, or by vehicles for the purpose of
retrieving gliders or cables is prohibited. Particular note should be taken of
the Northeast run access procedures detailed elsewhere in this publication.
Right of way. Aircraft on the ground, vehicles
and pedestrians give way to aircraft landing and taking off.
Aircraft on the ground not taking off or landing shall give way to
vehicles towing aircraft.
Vehicles and pedestrians must give way to aircraft taxiing or
vehicles towing aircraft.
When two vehicles towing aircraft are on a converging course the
one with the other on its right gives way.
Lookout. It is important to maintain a good
lookout for aircraft approaching to land when moving across the airfield as
they may do so from any direction. Particular care should be taken in the area
of the active final approach. When crossing the active final approach path,
keep as close to the boundary as possible.
Avoidance of aircraft landing or taking off. If
an aircraft is approaching to land close to a vehicle or person, that vehicle
or person must stop just before the aircraft commences its final turn and hold
position until the aircraft has stopped after landing or has passed. Vehicles
and persons must keep clear of the take-off path of aircraft at all times.
Crews must remove gliders from the landing area as quickly as possible.
Crossing winch cables. Gliders and vehicles may not cross
winch cables. An aerotow combination or motor glider
must not take-off across winch cables in any circumstances.
Retrieving gliders. (See ground handling). Gliders
must be retrieved from the landing area without delay. Vehicles should be
driven directly to the glider to be retrieved while maintaining an all round lookout. Vehicles and Vehicles towing aircraft
must stop for aircraft approaching to land. Retrieving gliders must be kept
clear of take-off paths. Provided the retrieve is clear of the take-off path
and will not cross it, it is not necessary to stop whilst aircraft are taking
off.
Towing out winch cables. The vehicle towing out winch
cables is exempt from stopping for aircraft approaching to land. On Northeast
run and Southwest run operations the cable retrieve must ensure that it will
not conflict with aerotow launches.
Dogs. Dogs must be kept on leads whilst on the operational areas of the
airfield.
Details of
the LGC operational areas can be found in the printed version of the Flying
Operations - Local Regulations.
Due to the uneven nature of the airfield, the Northeast run launch
points are out of sight of the clubhouse and trailer park areas. Because
aircraft take off toward these areas the following rules apply. All traffic
must strictly observe these rules whilst moving on the airfield when this
launch point is active.
Access to the launch point. Vehicle and pedestrian traffic may
only access this launch point via the Hill boundary (follow the marker arrows).
There are no other routes available whatever the circumstances. This is
because the launch point is blind to traffic in the clubhouse area. Aerotow launches are vulnerable to obstruction as they pass
low and close to this area. Any traffic on the Tring Road side of the airfield
will be in direct conflict with these launches.
Mid-field bat. The mid-field bat indicates to the tug pilot or motor glider
pilot that his take off path is clear. Tug and motor glider pilots must not
take off unless they receive a clearance signal. Mid-field bat clears such
launches as follows: On seeing an aerotow combination
or motor glider ready for take-off (glider canopy close, wings level, tug in
front with engine running), mid-field bat checks the take-off path. He checks
both sides of his position as the take-off may go either side. If the take-off
path is clear he holds the ‘Clearance Bat’ above his head and rotates it. He
continues this signal until the aerotow combination
or motor glider has passed his position. If it is not clear he holds the bat
stationary above his head with either face towards the launch point. The signal
is maintained until the obstruction has cleared when the all clear signal is
given as above. The provision of a mid-field bat is an additional
safeguard for the aerotow or motor glider take off.
Its presence in no way absolves traffic from adhering to the prescribed routes.
Eligibility for mid-field bat. Only full flying members of the
club (which includes members of Holiday Courses) may undertake this task. The
instructor in charge of the launch point controller must ensure that any member
asked to do the job fully understands his responsibilities. Similarly, any
member asked to do this job must obtain a clear briefing if he is unsure of the
exact requirements. Under no circumstances may temporary members do this
job.
See the paper version of LGC Flying Operations - Local Regulations
for diagram.
As Luton Airport has expanded over the years it has acquired more
and more airspace until today the Club finds itself in the position of being
inside a Control Zone which is Class D airspace. (See laws and rules 6.16 to
6.26). A Letter of Agreement between LGC, Luton Airport and the National Air
Traffic Service signed by all the parties, is the instrument that controls air
traffic in the area. However, the fact that gliders operate only a mile from
the approach path of large passenger carrying aircraft puts the situation in
the spotlight. Each glider pilot must therefore know, understand, and fly to
the procedures agreed for the safety of all traffic using the airspace. The
rules are complex but to contravene them in any way will jeopardise the future
of the club.
All pilots operating from Dunstable must know and apply these
rules. Each pilot must attend an Airspace Briefing
every year and sign the "Airspace Book" to indicate that they have
attended and understood the briefing. No pleas of ignorance or mistake
will be accepted. For gliders to fly in the prohibited parts of the Luton Zone
is both illegal (regulated by criminal law) and jeopardises the future of the
club. Transgressors can expect to receive the club’s severest retribution.
There are two distinct operating conditions at Dunstable which are
dependent on the runway in operation at Luton Airport. The airspace limitations
for the two operating conditions are quite different and explained in detail in
the clubs airspace presentation:
Default Airspace.
Until a pilot
has an airspace rating he will be confined to the default airspace. This will
be explained in detail during instruction to fly or by site check if the pilot
is already suitably qualified. As a reminder this airspace can be described as:
Remaining to
the north of the disused railway line from Aylesbury to Cheddington
station, a line from the station to the pond to the north of Ivinghoe Aston, from this pond following to the north of
the high tension cables which pass just to the south of Edlesborough
church and the "pig farm", from the pig farm up the hill to the road
which runs past the visitor centre, to the north of this road along to the
roundabout on Tring road, through to the centre of Dunstable and to Junction 11
(Luton and Dunstable Hospital) of the M1 with the A505. This is detailed on a
high resolution map in the briefing room.
07 Airspace
This airspace is available to all airspace rated pilots during any
daytime hours that LTCC have been informed of our intention to use the airspace
with the exception of the Spin Training Area. As a reminder this airspace can
be described as:
Remaining to
the north of the disused railway line from Aylesbury to Cheddington
station, a line from the station to the pond to the north of Ivinghoe Aston, from this pond following to the north of
the high tension cables which pass just to the south of Edlesborough
church and the "pig farm", from the pig farm up the hill to the road
which runs past the visitor centre and from this point along a line which would
pass through the radio mast at the edge of the chalk quarry by the buildings at
its western edge through the large communications tower at Zouches
farm northwest of Caddington. This is detailed on a
high resolution map in the briefing room.
To use the
Spin Training Area the pilot MUST be on a listening watch on 119.905MHz and be
able to respond to a directive to vacate the area.
25 Operation.
The
use of 25 airspace is only possible when a trained tower controller is
available and Luton are on runway 25 operation. The
tower controller can allow or deny access to the 25 airspace and operates with
the authority of the CFI. He must keep the LTCC phone with him at all times as
this is the means by which LTCC will inform us of a change of operating
conditions at Luton.
If
the airspace is closed then the phone may be returned to the tower.
When Luton are operating on runway 25 the additional airspace may
be used by "Airspace Rated Pilots" provided that they gain permission
to enter the airspace from the Tower Controller on Dunstable Radio 119.905MHz.
"Airspace Rated Pilots" will be familiar with the required procedures,
but are welcome to seek advice or confirmation at any time from the CFI or
Chief Tug Pilot. Rated pilots will have reaffirmed their understanding of the
airspace limits and operating requirements annually.
Transponders.
Any aircraft or glider operated from Dunstable which is
transponder equipped must be operated within the terms of the relevant
legislation in place at the time. Presently within the terms of the Luton LOA
the transponder must be set to a code of 7010 whilst within the Luton Zone.
This code is recognised by Luton as a local operator’s code which does not
require communication with the controllers of the airspace. Any aircraft
entering the zone displaying any other code and not in verbal contact with the
controllers will be seen as airspace infringement and it is current policy for
the CAA to prosecute offenders. Entering the Luton Zone when the airspace is
NOT delegated to LGC is also an infringement regardless of transponder code.
The Club will assist the authorities in anyway required to identify offenders
in order to protect its relationship with NATS and the CAA.
LGC Operating hours. Flying takes place from LGC. 15 minutes after notifying London Air
Traffic Control Centre during daylight hours. Under the terms of the Agreement
this does not constitute asking for permission, the right to operate is
implicit but, as there are days when the weather prevents us flying, this
system allows Luton to make maximum use of the airspace.
Airspace changes. Controlled airspace is subject to change at frequent intervals. A
current CAA ½ million map should be used to define controlled airspace but does
not define our operating agreement with Luton or LTCC. Changes made between
chart issues are detailed on the CAA web site.
Before flying solo on the hill for the first time a pilot must
have completed twelve solo flights and pass a dual check. The first solo hill
flight may be in a K21 or K23 at the discretion of the instructor. The check
flight will ascertain airmanship, soaring ability, knowledge of hill soaring
practices and the following local rules. All heights referred to in these rules
are above airfield (QFE).
Airmanship. A high standard of airmanship is expected at all times.
Manoeuvres that involve high speeds and rapid changes of height such as
competition finishes, ‘beat ups’ and ‘ridge running’ are prohibited when the
hill is soarable. Gliders flying along the hill will give way to thermalling gliders.
Joining the hill. The pattern formed by hill soaring traffic can be entered at
any point along the length of the hill. A good lookout must be maintained in
all directions.
Exit points. To enter the circuit for landing a glider should leave the hill at
the ‘exit point’ for the circuit in force. There are two exit points; for the
Southwest run the Club Bowl and for the west or northeast run, the Pig Farm.
These are recommended exit points, however pilots may
leave the hill at any point provided they do so in a safe manner.
Minimum height. The minimum height for soaring the hill is 400ft at or near the
exit point for the circuit in force. When the Southwest run is operational,
gliders may not soar the Zoo end with less than 600ft.
Circling. The minimum height for thermalling from
the hill is 800 feet. This allows for the effective loss of height as the
glider drifts back over the hill with the thermal. The glider should be ‘S’
turned in the thermal until the circling height is achieved. Begin all turns
into wind.
The above rules will be strictly applied to early solo pilots.
Should these pilots see a glider that appears to be flying in contravention of
them they should understand that those with more experience can fly to finer
limits. Instructors will interpret these rules and apply them to specific cases
taking the experience of the pilot into account. Action taken by instructors is
final and without appeal.
Separation. When passing another glider at least a two wing spans lateral
separation must be allowed. One glider must not over fly another with less than
100 feet vertical separation, as in strong lift conditions rapid height changes
are possible.
The hill is used by the Dunstable Hang Gliding and Paragliding
Club. The relative speeds of gliders, hang gliders and paragliders are such
that hang gliders and paragliders appear to be stationary. It is advised that
the more manoeuvrable gliders do most of the giving way.
Thermalling behind the hill. When thermalling off the hill the glider
will drift downwind with the thermal and may encounter down draft and
turbulence behind the hill. The severity of the down draft and turbulence and
the height to which it extends will depend upon the prevailing weather
conditions. Pilots must ensure they leave thermals with sufficient height to
regain the hill lift while avoiding the down draft and turbulence. As a guide,
provided the face of the hill remains in view as the glider drifts back the
hill lift can be regained easily. The glider must be kept clear of the
prohibited parts of the Luton Zone at all times (see Luton Control Zone).
Operating practices. When taking avoiding action the glider that gives way into wind
should expect to do most of the giving way to avoid forcing the other into the
down draft behind the hill.
Remember that a beat along the hill will involve 25 airspace. Only qualified pilots with the permission of a
trained tower controller can use the 25 airspace.
Operations
Control and Organisation
Chief Flying Instructor (CFI). The CFI is responsible for
all flying operations from the site and no flying may take place without his
authority. His authority in flying matters is absolute. He may appoint rated
deputies to carry out his instructions if absent, but he remains responsible
for all flying matters. He is in overall charge of flying policy, training,
airfield operations, tugging etc (See laws &
Rules 7.1 – 7.7)
Instructors.
Rated
Instructors (assistant and full) give formal flying training and may take
charge of flying operations. They are authorized by the CFI to exercise
discipline and enforce safety regulations on the airfield. All pilots must
comply with their instructions on flying matters. The decision of an instructor
is final and without appeal. A Basic Instructor conducts Trial Lessons. These
are designed to give new and prospective members experience of the sensations
of flying, before they commence formal training.
By invitation of the CFI Basic Instructors can upgrade to Rated
Instructors. The CFI gives his approval to attend a BGA course with a national
coach. A Basic Instructor rating does not imply and automatic right to upgrade.
Renewal and Medical Requirements.
Prior to the issue of an instructor rating candidates must obtain a medical
certificate. Instructors must always possess a valid medical certificate.
Ratings lapse when the medical certificate has expired. Medical requirements
are now aligned with the NPPL. It is the responsibility of the individual instructor
to ensure that medical requirements are met
Ratings are valid for one year, renewal depends upon the
completion of a return of flying experience to the club and the BGA with CFI’s
recommendation. The club will not accept renewals from instructors with less
than forty hours flying in the preceding year. More information is available
from the CFI.
Instructor Responsibilities.
The three categories of instructor carry the following responsibilities:
FULL
Take charge of
flying operations
Responsible
for flying discipline
Authorizes
first solos
Conducts
progress assessment checks
Approves
first solo cross countries
Instructs as
directed by the CFI
ASSISTANT
Takes charge
in the temporary absence of a Full Instructor
Exercises
flying discipline
Instructs as
specifically authorized by the CFI
BASIC
Instructs
Trial Lessons and One Day courses only.
Basic Instructing.
Full members of the club who are in current flying practice (at least 40 hours
in the year prior to application), have in excess of 100 hours in command of
gliders and a full Silver Badge Certificate, can apply to the CFI for Basic
Instructor training. Approval is not automatic. Applications are normally
discussed with flying group leaders. Approval allows the applicant to attend a
BGA approved Basic Instructors Course.
Tug Pilots.
Full flying members of the club who hold a Private Pilots
Licence (Group A), have one hundred hours in command of powered aircraft and
have gliding experience as required, may apply to the Chief Tug Pilot to train
as a tug pilot. Approval is not automatic and will be discussed with the CFI. A
high level of commitment and competence will be required. An assessment flight
will be required. Successful applicants will receive further training as
required by the Chief Tug Pilot. All cost involved must be borne by the
trainee.
The tug pilot rating is renewed upon evidence of a reasonable
amount of powered flying time and the endorsement of the Chief Tug Pilot.
Medical requirements are those for the class of pilots licence held by the
pilot. Renewal of such medicals is the responsibility of the pilot.
Motor Glider Pilots. Full flying members of the
club who hold a Private Pilots Licence (SLMG or TMG),
have a suitable level of gliding experience from Dunstable and meet the
insurance requirements, which may vary from time to time, may apply to the CFI
to train to operate a motor glider that is available to the club. Training
requirements that may cause nuisance to our neighbours will not be conducted in
the locality and the cost incurred of conducting such training at an
alternative location must be borne by the trainee. Instructing in motor gliders
may only be conducted by BGA or CAA rated instructors.
All Powered Aircraft operating from the airfield must
follow current regulations. Tug aircraft must be operated in strict compliance
with the Tug Operating Manual in force, whilst motor gliders must be operated
in strict compliance with the Motor Glider Operating Manual in force. The
airfield is strictly Prior Permission Only for visiting aircraft. Visiting
aircraft will only normally be given permission if flying in for Gliding Club
business. A full briefing must be given by the CFI or experienced tug pilot.
Gliders.
Members may purchase gliders for their exclusive use from the
site. It is recommended that members should have attained Progress Assessment
two before contemplating private ownership. Inexperienced pilots (less that one
hundred hours) must seek the advice of the CFI on suitable glider types
and obtain his specific approval to fly the chosen type before purchase. More
experienced pilots should inform the CFI of their intentions. The CFI may, at
his discretion, prohibit the operation of any glider type from the site
or pilots from flying types he may consider unsuited to them.
The Operating requirements and pilot qualifications for Club
operated two seat gliders apply equally and without exception to privately
owned two seaters. Owners of two seaters may not give or receive instruction,
other than in cross country techniques, unless they are operating for and on
behalf of the Club with CFI approval. Such flights must be charged at club
rates and the proceeds paid to the club. Each glider is subject to a levy
determined by the General Committee.
Powered Aircraft.
The term, powered aircraft, includes motor gliders, self
launchers and self sustainers. Full flying
members wishing to base powered aircraft on site must obtain approval from the
General Committee. They may not operate without the approval of the CFI. The
site is strictly “prior permission” (PPR) to visiting aircraft. Light aircraft
and motor gliders with engine on must not overfly built up areas close to the
airfield.
Light Aircraft. Light Aircraft based on site must
be capable of launching the majority of gliders on site. They must be
available to the club when required. All tug pilots must be permitted to fly
the aircraft with Chief Tug Pilots approval. Light aircraft leaving the site or
arriving on site must complete the Movements Book in the office.
Motor Gliders.
Motor Gliders, engine on, must operate as light aircraft. Engine off they must
comply with the rules governing glider operations. Motor gliders leaving the
site or arriving on site must complete the Movements Book in the office.
Self sustainers may not operate their
engines within 5 nm of the site. Each aircraft is subject to a levy as
determined by the General Committee.
All local rules contained in this publication or posted or
notified elsewhere governing airfield operations apply equally and without
exception to any privately owned aircraft in the above category determined by
Club Membership unless stated otherwise in these rules.