Sailplanes - unauthorized activity?

[CNYScouter 46]

I went to a new crew's open house last night and a question was asked about sailplanes.

I admiited I didn't know and didn't have the G2ss with me.

But the G2SS doesn't say anything about sailplanes.

 

From the G2SS:

 

Flying in hang gliders, ultralights, experimental class aircraft, and hot-air balloons (whether or not they are tethered); parachuting, and flying in aircraft as part of a search and rescue mission are unauthorized activities.

 

Are these considered the same as hang gliders?

[click23 66]

I am not sure if they fall under the BSAs definition of "ultralight". The first thing to do would be have sailplane operator read over the "Flying Permit Application", http://www.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/19-672.pdf , and see if they comply with its licensing, insurance, etc. If so, then fill out the form and send it into the council and see what they have to say.(This message has been edited by click23)

[ljnrsu 10]

You need to check with your Council since as click23 stated you need to file a Flying Permit Application. Your Council decides whether or not Sailplane is an approved activity.

[Pack212Scouter 10]

My first thought would be that sailplanes would fall under the same category as light aircraft (Cesna, etc.). But I would let the council make this call.

[Eagledad 2777]

Officially (FAA), sailplanes are their own class. And looking at the intent of the text, Im not sure how it falls. I imagine the restrictions are based from risk. Sailplanes are not considered a risky aircraft to fly, but it has its limits not having an engine. Interesting.

 

Barry

 

[SWScouter 34]

Considering that scouts flying in sailplanes is this months Boy's Life cover story, it's probably ok.

[Beavah 205]

Yah, there's no restriction on sailplanes.

 

Sailplanes are not in the same class of aircraft as hang gliders, ultralights, experimental, or hot-air balloons.

 

It can be a fine activity for older scouts or Venturers. For da scouts, try to combine it with Weather and Aviation MB's.

 

Beavah