The same European legislation that created the EASA PPL and LAPL(A) also created the LAPL(Sailplane) and Sailplane Pilots Licence (SPL). These licences all became available on the same date in 2012. However, there is a derogation in force which allows until 7th April 2015 for the UK to complete the conversion. Until then a licence is not required in UK airspace.
The training for the LAPL(S) and SPL is identical - as are the examinations. The requirements are:
- 10 hours of dual instruction.
- 2 hours of supervised solo.
- 45 launches and landings (their words not mine!)
- 1 solo cross country of 50 km or a dual cross country of 100 km.
- Pass the theoretical exams.
- Pass a flying skills test.
All instruction by an EASA FI and the examinations and skills test by an EASA FE. Same basic rules as for the PPL.