GPC - Glider Pilot Certificate Launch and Landing Procedures Questions and Answers

Question 1

During an aerotow launch, what is the correct immediate action for the glider pilot if the tow rope breaks shortly after becoming airborne, but with sufficient runway remaining to land?

Accepted Answer

Maintain a normal glide attitude, release the remaining rope, and land straight ahead.

Answer

In the event of a low-altitude tow rope break with sufficient runway ahead, the safest procedure is to immediately lower the nose to maintain flying speed, pull the tow release to jettison the remaining rope, and execute a normal landing straight ahead on the remaining runway. Attempting a 180-degree turn at low altitude is extremely hazardous and a leading cause of accidents.

Question 2

Which of the following is a critical part of the pre-takeoff checklist, often remembered by the mnemonic 'CISTRS' or a similar variation?

Accepted Answer

Checking that controls are free and correct.

Answer

A standard pre-takeoff checklist, often using a mnemonic like CISTRSC (Controls, Instruments, Straps, Trim, Release, Spoilers, Canopy), always includes a check for full, free, and correct movement of all flight controls (ailerons, elevator, and rudder). This ensures the glider is controllable before the launch begins.

Question 3

A glider pilot is on the downwind leg of the landing pattern. At what point should they typically plan to turn onto the base leg?

Accepted Answer

When the intended touchdown point is approximately 45 degrees behind the glider's wing.

Answer

The standard procedure is to fly downwind past the intended landing spot and begin the turn to the base leg when the landing spot appears at an approximate 45-degree angle behind the wing. This positioning helps establish a proper glide path for the base and final legs of the approach.

Question 4

When performing a crosswind landing, what is the primary purpose of the 'crabbing' technique during the final approach?

Accepted Answer

To counteract the wind's drift and maintain a ground track aligned with the runway.

Answer

During a crabbing approach, the glider's nose is pointed into the wind to counteract the sideways drift. This allows the glider's actual ground track to remain aligned with the runway centerline, even though the aircraft's longitudinal axis is at an angle to it. Just before touchdown, the pilot 'kicks out' the crab by applying rudder to align the glider with the runway.

Question 5

If the glider's release mechanism fails during an aerotow, what is the standard signal the glider pilot should give to the tow pilot?

Accepted Answer

Fly out to the left side of the tow plane and rock the wings.

Answer

The standard visual signal for a glider release failure is for the glider to move to the left of the tow plane's wake and rock its wings. This alerts the tow pilot to the problem, who should then return to the airfield and release the tow rope from their end, allowing the glider to land safely.

GPC - Glider Pilot Certificate Practice Test

GPC - Glider Pilot Certificate Practice Test

GPC - Glider Pilot Certificate Launch and Landing Procedures Questions and Answers