FAA Ground School Practice Test

What minimum pilot-in-command time is required for a certificated private pilot to tow a glider?

1. 50 hours

2. 75 hours

3. 100 hours

4. 125 hours

The correct answer is: 100 hours

To tow a glider, a certificated private pilot must meet specific minimum pilot-in-command time requirements set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In this case, the correct minimum requirement is 100 hours of pilot-in-command time. This requirement is in place to ensure that pilots who engage in glider towing have sufficient experience to operate safely in the complex environments and unique flight dynamics associated with glider operations. This minimum time is intended to enhance flight safety and ensure that pilots are adequately trained and experienced to handle the responsibilities of towing a glider, which includes understanding the additional aerodynamics, maintaining situational awareness, and executing safe takeoffs and landings while managing the dynamics of two aircraft in flight. While other options reflect varying amounts of pilot-in-command experience, they do not meet the FAA's specific regulatory requirement for glider towing, which highlights the importance of having adequate flight time to safeguard against potential risks associated with this type of flying.