TSA Glider Operating Speeds

(based on flight manuals)

USE THESE SPEEDS FOR INITIAL TRAINING AND CONVERSION TO NEW TYPES

All speeds in KNOTS

Glider	Thermal	Best L/D	Approach @
			Light Wind ~	Strong Wind ~
Grob G 103	48	55	55*	60*
ASK – 21	48	55	55*^	60*^
PW – 5	45	50	50*	55*
SGS 1-26	45	50	50	55

NOTES:

1. Two place numbers based on 300-350 lbs. cockpit load.
2. * Add 5 knots if rain on wings.
3. @ Establish approach speed on downwind as part of downwind checks.
4. ~ light wind = 15 knots or less; strong wind = above 15 knots.
5. “Thermal” assumes 30 – 35 degree actual bank angle.
6. ^ Add 5 knots to nominal as additional safety margin for inexperienced pilots coping with wind gradient / unusually high sink rate with large airbrake setting.

If strong turbulence is anticipated, ADD 5 knots to the applicable approach speed

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