Bronze Badge

Introduction

The Bronze Badge and the Cross Country Endorsement provide a significant step forward in the development of a glider pilot. Completion of both is evidence of the pilot reaching a standard very similar to that of a licensed private pilot with additional soaring and other skills. Indeed, holders of the Bronze Badge with Cross Country Endorsement have exceeded the minimum requirements required by the ICAO Annex 1 re the glider pilot licence and can apply for the BGA Glider Pilot Licence.

Holders of current and BGA recognised National Glider Pilot Licenses do not need the BGA Bronze Badge with Cross Country Endorsement. However, those licence holders must ensure that they are familiar with BGA Laws and Rules as well as UK specific airspace rules. BGA Laws and Rules describe how unlicensed glider pilots who have not completed the Bronze Badge with cross country endorsement must not fly outside gliding range of the airfield.

Requirements

The badge requirements are described in BGA Laws and Rules.

Theoretical Knowledge

The detail of the theoretical knowledge requirement is defined in the Bronze Badge Syllabus. The BGA recommends the publication 'Bronze and Beyond', available from the BGA Shop, as an excellent study guide. Other recommended study material is identified within the Syllabus and in a useful Study Guide.

Theoretical Knowledge Test

Theory knowledge for the Bronze Badge is usually tested at individual clubs under the authority of the CFI. Each club has a BGA supplied CDROM based Bronze Badge test package that can be used either for practice or for testing. Please note that the current CDROM may identify itself as time expired (Apr 09). This message should be ignored. CFI's will be advised when the CDROM should be replaced.

For the theoretical knowledge test, a randomly selected examination paper can be printed on site that is subsequently marked on site by the CFI or another nominated instructor.

Flying Skills

The detail of the skill requirement is defined in the Bronze Syllabus. The BGA recommends that candidates seek appropriate training that will progressively develop their piloting skills and airmanship. Your club CFI is an ideal person to talk to about developing a personal plan that will enable you to exceed the Bronze Badge minimum test standard..

Flying Skill Tests

The flying tests consist of a general handling skill test in a glider, a ground based oral/practical test, a separate navigation skill test in a glider or motor glider and a general appraisal of your in-flight lookout and airmanship.

Resources

BGA Laws and Rules

Bronze Syllabus

Bronze Theoretical Knowledge Study Guide

'Bronze & Beyond' Publication

Navigation Testing Guidance

Field Landing Information

Bronze Application forms

Glider Pilot Licence Info