Winch Operators License

Number of days:

• May vary between our different training locations
• Please check our schedule for more detail

Prerequisites

• You must be, at least, a non-flying member of the BHPA.
  

What you need to bring with you

• Water to drink and food to eat for each day of your course.
• Association membership
• Additionally, if abroad, Passport, Driving Licence, Accident insurance including repatriation, National insurance no E111 available from your post office.
• Your solo flying equipment (alternatively, available for hire through Lejair).

What you will learn

• All aspects relating to the operation of, static, cable, winches so as to provide cable launches to experienced pilots in a safe and efficient manner.

The tasks you will need to complete

• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the theory, and dangers, of winching operations.

• Closely observe 12 launches carried out by a tow instructor.
• Carry out a minimum of 12 launches under the direct supervision of a tow instructor.
• Carry out an additional 60 launches, under supervision, in a variety of wind and weather conditions, towing gliders of various types and weights.
• Pass a final assessment.

Priviledges you will enjoy on obtaining this certificate/rating

• To operate a static cable winch within a BHPA approved Tow Club under the direction of a BHPA Tow Coach

Course Timetable

• The course time-table always varies due to weather conditions and location. Morning and evening air is generally better for training as the air is calmer. Therefore it is necessary that you talk to the instructor to get a plan for the start time of your

The next steps

• Join a club and volunteer to act as winchman - Proceed with caution for you next 60 launches, whilst rated you need to recognise your inexperience.