Will a self-launch endorsement suffice?

DaleB said:
And multi too, right?
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Maybe, it is certificated as a glider, and there is no multi- for gliders. But, there is also no multi- for Part 103. So which pattern is followed?
 
billsgs126 said:
Maybe, it is certificated as a glider, and there is no multi- for gliders. But, there is also no multi- for Part 103. So which pattern is followed?
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I'm curious what is the definition of glider for FAA purposes, and where an aircraft ceases to be a glider and becomes an airplane when it gains an engine...or two.
 
midwestpa24 said:
If those are jets, you'll need a type rating.
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They are.

But the FAA says "turbine", not jet.

Pulse jets are not turbines. And Vortech sells plans for the 35 lb thrust XPJ49 . . . :cool:
 
midwestpa24 said:
I'm curious what is the definition of glider for FAA purposes, and where an aircraft ceases to be a glider and becomes an airplane when it gains an engine...or two.
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Depends on what the type certificate says. For example, the Pipistrel Sinus is certified as a Glider even though it has a Rotax 912 and a feathering prop. You can get a Glider pilot Certificate and fly the Sinus as an airplane and never shut off the engine.
 
midwestpa24 said:
I'm curious what is the definition of glider for FAA purposes, and where an aircraft ceases to be a glider and becomes an airplane when it gains an engine...or two.
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To paraphrase (which is always dangerous) a self-launching glider is designed to ascend to initial altitude under power but then to fly without power*. The original Sanders modification to the Schweitzer 1-26 (pictured above) had a 4-or-so-gallon fuel tank, so that would preclude a long flight under power.

*Spellwreck thinks we fly under "flower".
 
"Glider means a heavier-than-air aircraft, that is supported in flight by the dynamic reaction of the air against its lifting surfaces and whose free flight does not depend principally on an engine."
"Airplane means an engine-driven fixed-wing aircraft heavier than air, that is supported in flight by the dynamic reaction of the air against its wings."
 
Capt. Geoffrey Thorpe said:
"Glider means a heavier-than-air aircraft, that is supported in flight by the dynamic reaction of the air against its lifting surfaces and whose free flight does not depend principally on an engine."
"Airplane means an engine-driven fixed-wing aircraft heavier than air, that is supported in flight by the dynamic reaction of the air against its wings."
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Yes, and at it's core, "powered-glider" is an oxymoron. Yet at least two forms exist.
 
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