Already have a power pilot license? (PPL, CPL)
Interested in getting into Gliders?
Here’s What It Means for Your Glider Licence
If you have a PPL or better, your existing license gets you significant credit toward a Canadian Glider Pilot Licence. Here’s a summary of what applies — see the full Transport Canada Standard 421 (SOR/96-433) for authoritative language.
You don’t need a Student Pilot Permit Your existing license already qualifies you to fly solo in a glider, once you’ve completed the required dual training and received instructor sign-off.
Ground school and the GLIDE exam are waived existing pilot license holders are deemed to have met both the ground school and written exam requirements — no additional study or testing required. – 421.24(3), 421.24(6)(a)(ii) & (iii)
Reduced flight training — 6 hours down to 3 Instead of the standard 6 hours, you need a minimum of 3 hours of glider flight training within the 24 months before applying. The specific minimums for dual instruction, solo time, take-offs, and landings still apply. – 421.24(4)(a)–(b).
Skill demonstration Within 12 months before applying, you must demonstrate normal and emergency glider manoeuvres (on the ground and in the air), and obtain a letter of attestation from a qualified Glider Flight Instructor. – 421.24(5)(a)–(b)
Other requirements that still apply regardless of credits:
Where any guidance here conflicts with the official Standard, Transport Canada’s language takes precedence.
