Tow Pilot Course
The following articles by the Soaring Safety Foundation and the Civil Air Patrol Present an on-line tow pilot course.
Tow Pilot Course Introduction
Scope & Purpose The scope and purpose of this course is to provide standardized tow pilot training producing safe and competent tow pilots. Overview of Aerotow A glider is pulled aloft by a [...]
Tow Hook, Tow Ring, Tow Rope Inspection
Tow Hook Assembly Inspection & Operational Check American Type Tow Hook 1. Visually inspect the tow hook and release arm for damage, cracks, deformation, and freedom of movement on pivot bolts. 2. Visually [...]
Takeoff Planning
1. After your inspections are complete, compute takeoff performance for the towplane using the approved pilot operating handbook (POH). As a rule of thumb the tow plane is normally airborne in about twice the [...]
Standard American Soaring Signals – Ground Signals
Normally, the Standard American Soaring Signals will be used to communicate between the launch crew and tow plane. In some cases, specific local procedures may be in effect. The tow pilot should be thoroughly [...]
Takeoff & Climb
Advance the throttle smoothly and quickly, in one motion. If the tow plane is allowed to accelerate and then slow, the glider may overrun the tow line. This may result in the tow line [...]
Tow Positions, Turns & Release
Glider Tow Positions The high-tow is normally used for glider tow operations. However, a low-tow position may be used in some instances, a cross-country tow for example. The main goal of both positions is to [...]
Cross-Country Aerotow
Planning is the key for a successful and safe cross-county tow. Fuel consumption during any tow operation will be high. Plan conservatively using the maximum fuel consumption for your particular tow plane and the possibility [...]
Emergencies
Takeoff Emergencies The key to ensuring successful emergency management is the development of an emergency plan. Prior to takeoff, an emergency release point should be selected somewhere along the takeoff runway. This release [...]
Other Airborne Non-Emergency Signals
Turn Signal If the glider can not communicate via the radio, he/she can communicate a right turn by maneuvering the glider to the left and gently pulling the tow plane tail to the left, [...]
Federal Aviation Regulations for Tow Pilots
Sec. 61.69 Glider Towing: Experience & Training Requirements [Text in brackets added by the author for explanation] (a) No person may act as pilot in command for towing a glider unless that person: (1) [...]
Flight Training Syllabus
The following pilot qualifications are established as a guide. Clubs, commercial operators, and other soaring organizations may establish their own specific tow pilot qualifications in addition to FAA requirements. The following requirements must be [...]
After reading these articles, you can take the final exam below.
