Linda, That's true. Those with a glider pilot license AND with a "self-launch" endorsement may fly powered, self-launching gliders.
Some of these are, effectively, just normal light aircraft with very, very long wings. My backup position, if the FAA still won't let me get a one-time medical to clear my prior rejection is to register the Challenger II long wing I'm building as a glider (self-launch). I bought it for its ability to glide and soar (strong thermals required since there's no ridge lift to speak of in the flat central plains). Glider pilots may fly even with a rejected medical though, like all pilots, they must "self-certify" (decide they are fit) before each flight. However, I do expect I'll be able to get my medical since, with the insulin pump, I now have excellent control of my diabetes. The cost of the stress EKG and such make me not in a hurry till I'm nearer getting my Challenger built. (Side note: QCU just announced a new version of the Challenger single place that is part 103 compliant and really, truly legal.) Ed Ed Burkhead http://edburkhead.com/Ercoupe/index.htm East Peoria, Illinois ed -at- edbur???khead.??com (remove the ? marks and change -at- to @)
