Sailplane Pilot Licence SPL
The Sailplane Pilot Licence (SPL) is a popular pilot licence in Europe. It allows you to fly sailplanes (gliders) as well as powered aircraft (touring motor gliders / ultralight) up to a maximum take-off weight of 600 kg.
What can you fly with an SPL?
Aircraft Type
Sailplanes and powered aircraft (touring motor gliders/UL) up to a maximum take-off weight of 600 kg
Flight Rules
VFR, day and night (with night rating). Non-commercial flights only.
Validity
The licence is valid for life. Privileges may only be exercised with a valid rating (see below).
Operating Area
Europe (EASA recognition); see also national rules for ultralights.
With the SPL, you may fly sailplanes and powered aircraft (touring motor gliders/UL) up to 600 kg maximum take-off weight privately. After 10 hours of flight time post-licence, you may obtain a passenger rating. VFR flights are allowed; night flying requires an additional rating.
Depending on the country, a national ultralight licence (UL licence) may exist in addition to the EASA SPL. National UL licences may have different requirements, privileges, or recognition, so always check the regulations in your country.
The SPL is valid for life. To exercise the privileges, you must have met the currency requirements in the last 24 months (e.g. 5 hours flight time/15 launches/2 instructional flights for sailplanes, or 12 hours/12 flights/1 hour instruction for powered aircraft/UL). Otherwise, a proficiency check with an instructor or examiner is required.
Requirements
Theory Training
- Air Law
- Navigation
- Aircraft General Knowledge
- Communication
- Flight Performance and Planning
- Human Performance and Limitations
- Meteorology
- Operational Procedures
- Principles of Flight
Theory training consists of 9 subjects. Depending on the flight school, between 10 and 30 hours of classroom instruction are provided.
For optimal preparation for the theory exam, you should plan at least 60 hours of self-study. PilotExam is the ideal platform to practice with the current question bank.
The theory exam consists of 9 to 15 questions per subject. About 75% of the questions are publicly available, the remaining 25% are unpublished. You must answer at least 75% correctly to pass. Unpublished questions are usually variations or similar to the published ones.
The theory exam can be taken in parts. It is considered passed if all subjects are completed within 18 months of the first exam date. The practical exam must then be completed within 24 months.
Practical Training
In practical training, you will learn the basics of flying, emergency procedures, navigation, and how to use radio and navigation instruments.
For sailplanes, practical training includes at least 15 flight hours, at least 2 hours solo, at least 45 launches and landings, an outlanding exercise, and a cross-country flight of at least 50 km.
For powered aircraft/UL, practical training includes at least 30 flight hours, at least 5 hours solo including multiple cross-country flights, and 2 cross-country flights with an instructor, each of at least 200 km.
Examination
The practical exam takes place at the end of your training. The examiner will assess your flight planning, pre-flight checks, basic flying skills, and your ability to safely operate the aircraft in emergency situations. The check ride typically lasts about 60 minutes.
Costs
The cost of training varies by flight school and aircraft type. Glider flying is often done in clubs, which reduces cost but may require more time.
Training as a sailplane pilot typically costs between €2,000 and €5,000; for powered aircraft/UL between €3,000 and €8,000. Use our cost calculator for a personalised estimate.
Training Path
Medical Class (LAPL) or Medical Class 2
The medical certificate should be obtained before the training starts.
Theory Training
The theory training consists of 9 subjects. It usually takes 60 hours of self-study.
Practice on PilotExamRadio Operator's Certificate
The radio certificate should be obtained before the training starts.
Practice on PilotExamFirst Flight
Basic flight maneuvers and aircraft control.
Solo Flight
First solo flight without a flight instructor.
Practical Exam
The completion of your pilot training.
Getting the License
Congratulations, you made it!
License Comparison
| License | 🛩️Private Pilot License (PPL-A) | 🛩️Light Aircraft Pilot License (LAPL-A) | 🛩️Sport Pilot License (SPL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Requirements | |||
| Min. Age | 17 | 17 | 16 |
| Min. Flight Hours | 45 | 30 | 15 (Glider) / 30 (Motor glider/UL) |
| Medical Class | Class 2 | Class 2 | Class 2 |
| Radio Operator's Certificate | Radio Operator's Certificate | Radio Operator's Certificate | Radio Operator's Certificate |
| Capabilities | |||
| Max. Take-Off Weight | Unlimited | 2,000 kg | 600 kg |
| Passenger Rating | Yes | After 10 hours | After 10 hours |
| Validity | Worldwide | Europe | National / Recognized in the EU |
| Cost | |||
| Total | 10.000€ - 25.000€ | 6.000€ - 15.000€ | 3.000€ - 8.000€ |
Frequently asked questions
* The prices are approximate estimates and may vary depending on the flight school and aircraft type. The data is provided without any warranty.