Gliding Australia Documents

It provides a summary of items to be covered when training the unit as part of the GFA GPC program

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The Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge issued by the Federal Aviation Administration in the United States provides basic knowledge that is essential for pilots of powered aircraft, many aspects of which will be relevant to powered sailplane pilots.

The Glider Flying Handbook issued by the Federal Aviation Administration in the United States is designed as a technical manual for applicants who are preparing for glider category rating and for currently certificated glider pilots who wish to improve their knowledge. Flight instructors will find this handbook a valuable training aid, since detailed coverage of aeronautical decision-making, components and systems, aerodynamics, flight instruments, performance limitations, ground operations, flight maneuvers, traffic patterns, emergencies, soaring weather, soaring techniques, and cross-country flight is included. 

NOTE: Some practices may differ to those in Australia.

Although the title of this book is largely self-explanatory, a few words of further explanation may help to understand its specific purpose.

Most glider-pilot training is practical and “hands-on” in nature. However, there is an amount of theoretical knowledge which is not only desirable, but actually makes the task of learning to fly easier and more pleasurable. The theoretical knowledge is imparted progressively as flying training continues.

The purpose of this book is to provide a reference for the kind of knowledge which you will need as you progress through your flying. It is a supplement to your training, from the basic reasons how a glider is able to fly in the first place to the meteorology which enables it to soar. It also covers items such as air legislation, basic navigation and use of radio. However, the primary training documents that must be used are the Trainer Guides and Pilot Guides.

Most aircraft accidents are linked to deficiencies in human performance. These deficiencies may involve a variety of factors. The factors include poor lookout, situation awareness (SA), decision-making, task organisation, communication, failure to recognise threats to safety and the commission of errors.

Human Factors are often perceived as 'psychobabble' and the realm of the psychologists, rather than an extension of old-fashioned 'good airmanship'. Also, Human Factors have been associated more with multi-crew and airline operations, rather than sports aviation single-pilot activities. The intent of this document is to provide guidance on the incorporation of single-pilot Human Factors into glider flight operations.

The GFA acknowledges Graham Wardell of the Auckland Gliding Club N.Z for allowing the use his Human Factors material in the development of this manual.