For a glider without self-launch capability, pilot time begins when the glider is towed for the purpose of flight and ends when the glider comes to rest after landing. What is this time period called?

• A. Flight Time
• B. Tow Time
• C. Glider Time
• D. Operational Time

Answer: (A)

Flight time is the elapsed time from when the glider is towed for the purpose of flight until it comes to rest after landing. For gliders without self-launch capability, the tow portion is part of the flight, so it’s included in the pilot’s logged flight time. This is the term used for logging hours toward currency and certification. Tow time would cover only the towing portion, and the other terms aren’t standard FAA terms for this measurement.