The Air Navigation Order 2009

Towing of gliders

126.—(1) An aircraft in flight must not tow a glider unless the flight manual for the towing aircraft includes an express provision that it may be used for that purpose.

(2) The length of the combination of towing aircraft, tow rope and glider in flight must not exceed 150 metres.

(3) The commander of an aircraft which is about to tow a glider must be satisfied, before the towing aircraft takes off that—

(a) the tow rope is in good condition and is of adequate strength for the purpose;

(b) the combination of towing aircraft and glider, having regard to its performance in the conditions to be expected on the intended flight and to any obstructions at the place of departure and on the intended route, is capable of safely taking off, reaching and maintaining a safe height at which to separate the combination;

(c) after separation the towing aircraft can make a safe landing at the place of intended destination;

(d) signals have been agreed and communication established with persons suitably stationed so as to enable the glider to take off safely; and

(e) emergency signals have been agreed between the commander of the towing aircraft and the commander of the glider, to be used, respectively, by the commander of the towing aircraft to indicate that the tow should immediately be released by the glider, and by the commander of the glider to indicate that the tow cannot be released.

(4) The glider must be attached to the towing aircraft by means of the tow rope before the aircraft takes off.