Glider Flying Handbook (2026) (FAA-H-8083-13B)

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This handbook FAA-H-8083-13B is current in 2025.

The FAA’s Glider Flying Handbook introduces the basic pilot skills and knowledge essential for piloting gliders. Beneficial for student pilots just beginning their glider endeavors as well as pilots preparing for additional certificates or wanting to improve their flying proficiency, it is also a valuable tool for flight instructors engaged in teaching glider pilots of all skill levels.

This handbook provides the information and guidance required for pilot certification and offers a key reference for the FAA test standards. Dedicated chapters provide insight into gliders and sailplanes, components and systems, the aerodynamics of flight, flight instruments, glider performance, preflight and ground operations, launch and recovery procedures, flight maneuvers, abnormal and emergency procedures, soaring weather, soaring techniques, cross-country soaring, towing, and human factors.

As the official FAA source for learning to fly gliders, the Glider Flying Handbook is the basis for many of the test questions on the FAA Knowledge Exams for pilots. Complete with chapter summaries and illustrated throughout with detailed, full-color drawings and photographs, it also includes a glossary and index.