The SSA ABC Training Program was developed to have a standard of training available designed to provide a basic approach to flying sailplanes’ This badge program provides student glider pilots and accomplished power pilots transitioning to gliders the necessary points unique to soaring.
The ABC badge program itself is administered by current certified glider flight instructors designated as SSA Instructors. The SSA Instructor is responsible for ascertaining that the training requirements have been met. The appropriate pins and blue cards are awarded to SSA member pilots who achieve the level indicated by A, B, C, badge, each designated to develop skills and experience necessary for future safe flight and FAI Badge attempts.
C Badge
Pre-Cross-Country Phase
- Dual soaring practice, including instruction in techniques for soaring thermals, ridge soaring, and wave (simulated flight and/or ground instruction may be used when suitable conditions do not exist).
- Has knowledge of:
- Cross-country procedures
- Sailplane assembly, disassembly, and retrieves
- Hazards of cross-country flying
- Demonstrates soaring ability by solo flight of at least 60 minutes duration after release from 2,000 foot tow (add 1½ minutes per 100 foot of tow above 2,000 feet).
- While accompanied by an SSA Instructor, demonstrate the following:
- Make a simulated off-field landing from the approach without reference to the altimeter
- Perform an accuracy landing from the approach, touching down and coming to a complete stop within an area no greater than 500 feet in length.
