Private Pilot Private Exam

How many hours of pilot in command time in the appropriate aircraft category, class, and type are required for a certificated private pilot to tow a glider?

1. 50 hours

2. 75 hours

3. 100 hours

4. 150 hours

The correct answer is: 100 hours

To tow a glider, a certificated private pilot must have a specific amount of pilot-in-command time, which ensures that the pilot has sufficient experience and familiarity with the aircraft involved in the operation. The requirement is established to enhance safety during the towing process, where the pilot must manage not only their own aircraft but also the unique dynamics introduced by the glider being towed. The requirement for 100 hours of pilot-in-command time in the appropriate category, class, and type of aircraft is designed to ensure that the pilot is adequately prepared to handle potential challenges that may arise while towing, such as variations in performance, handling characteristics, and situational awareness regarding the glider's movements. This experience also means that the pilot has had the opportunity to develop skills necessary for effective communication and coordination with the glider pilot. Understanding these requirements is critical for aspiring private pilots who wish to engage in glider towing, as it reflects both the regulatory standards and the practical implications of such operations. The other options represent an insufficient amount of pilot-in-command time to meet the safety needs associated with glider towing.