1.0 General

1.0.1 The General Section of the Sporting Code contains general definitions and rules applying to all air sports.
This Section (SC3) gives specific rules that apply to gliders (GS 2.2.1.4 Class D). Rules for motor gliders (Class DM) are also included in this section.

Gliding aerobatic competition is covered in Section 6, hang gliders and paragliders (GS 2.2.1.13, class O) in Section 7, and microlights (GS 2.2.1.15, class R) in Section 10.

1.0.2 Section 3 rules apply to all glider flights for FAI badges and world records.

1.0.3 Section 3 includes annexes that contain specialised rules and guidance:

a. Annex A Contains rules and other details on world and all other FAI-sanctioned gliding competitions.

b. Annex B Covers requirements for equipment used for flight validation.

c. Annex C Gives non-regulatory guidance, methods and sample calculations to assist Official Observers and pilots in complying with SC3.

The FAI document, "Technical Specifications for IGC-Approved GNSS Flight Recorders" gives information required by manufacturers of flight recorders.

1.0.4 GLIDER A glider is a fixed wing aerodyne capable of sustained soaring flight and having no means of propulsion. Class D is the FAI Class for gliders and includes Class DM for motor gliders. For records, gliders fall within one of the following sub-classes:

a. OPEN any glider.

b. 15 METRE any glider with a wingspan not exceeding 15,000 mm.

c. WORLD a PW-5 glider as defined in Chapter 7.7.5.

d. ULTRALIGHT a glider with a takeoff mass not xceeding 220 kg, and a MICROLIFT glider is an ULTRALIGHT glider with a wingloading not exceeding 18 kg/m².

MICROLIFT gliders do not have separate world records.

Championship classes are defined in Chapter 7.7

1.0.5 MOTOR GLIDER A fixed wing aerodyne equipped with a means of propulsion (MoP), capable of sustained soaring flight without thrust from the means of propulsion.

1.0.6 Terms, rules, and requirements are defined first in their most general sense. Where an exception to a general rule exists, it will be described in the paragraph of the
Code where the exception occurs.

1.1 Definition of Flight Terms

1.1.1 SOARING PERFORMANCE The performance during that portion of a glider flight from the START POINT PERFORMANCE to the FINISH POINT. A means of propulsion must not be used during a SOARING PERFORMANCE.

1.1.2 WAY POINT A precisely specified point or point feature on the surface of the earth using a word description and/or a set of coordinates. A WAY POINT may be a START POINT, a TURN POINT, or a FINISH POINT and has an associated
OBSERVATION ZONE.

1.1.3 LEG The straight line between two successive WAY POINTS. The length of a LEG is subject to a correction in the circumstances given in 1.2.11.

1.1.4 COURSE All the LEGS of a SOARING PERFORMANCE.

1.1.5 OBSERVATION ZONE The airspace a lider must enter to verify that a WAY POINT has been reached (see 4.6.2f). A given SOARING PERFORMANCE may use only one type of OBSERVATION ZONE (OZ). The shape of OZ may be either:

a. a SECTOR OZ (1.2.9),or

b. a CYLINDER OZ (1.2.10). This OZ may only be used when a FLIGHT RECORDER (see
1.3.5) is used for verification.

1.1.6 RELEASE POINT The point on the ground vertically below where the glider releases from launch or ceases to use any means of propulsion.

1.1.7 START The beginning of the SOARING PERFORMANCE. It must be either:

a. The release from launch, or stopping the use of any means of propulsion, or

b. Leaving the OBSERVATION ZONE of a START POINT, or

c. Crossing a START LINE.

1.1.8 START POINT The WAY POINT marking the beginning of a SOARING PERFORMANCE. It must be either:

a. The RELEASE POINT, or

b. A WAY POINT declared as a START POINT, or

c. The midpoint of a START LINE.

1.1.9 START LINE A horizontal line one kilometre in length, oriented approximately perpendicular to the first LEG. The midpoint of the line (the START POINT) is at ground
level.

1.1.10 TURN POINT A WAY POINT between two LEGS of a flight.

1.1.11 FINISH The end of the SOARING PERFORMANCE. It occurs on:

a. Landing the glider, or

b. Entering the OBSERVATION ZONE of the FINISH POINT, or

c. Crossing a FINISH LINE, or

d. Starting an MoP.

1.1.12 FINISH POINT The WAY POINT marking the end of a SOARING PERFORMANCE. It is:

a. The point at which the nose of the glider comes to rest without external assistance after landing, or

b. A WAY POINT declared as the FINISH POINT or goal, or

c. The midpoint of a FINISH LINE, or

d. The point at which an MoP is started.

1.1.13 FINISH LINE A horizontal line one kilometre in length, oriented approximately perpendicular to the final LEG. The midpoint of the line (the FINISH POINT) is at ground
level.

1.1.14 GOAL A FINISH POINT specified in a DECLARATION (see 4.3.3).

1.1.15 CLOSED COURSE A flight where the glider is required to return to the START POINT at the finish of the SOARING PERFORMANCE (see 4.3.3).

1.2 Definition of Soaring Measurement Terms

Depending upon the type of flight, the following parameters may be determined to assess a SOARING PERFORMANCE. The requirements for gathering soaring measurements and the precision of measurement are given in Chapter 4.

1.2.1 START TIME The time that the SOARING PERFORMANCE starts.

1.2.2 START ALTITUDE The altitude of the glider above sea level at the START.

1.2.3 FINISH TIME The time that the SOARING PERFORMANCE finishes.

1.2.4 FINISH ALTITUDE The altitude of the glider above sea level at the FINISH.

1.2.5 DURATION The time elapsed between the START TIME and the FINISH TIME.

1.2.6 SPEED The OFFICIAL DISTANCE divided by the DURATION.

1.2.7 LOSS OF HEIGHT The START ALTITUDE minus the FINISH ALTITUDE (see also 1.4.7).

1.2.8 GAIN OF HEIGHT The difference between the maximum altitude and a previous minimum altitude during the SOARING PERFORMANCE.

1.2.9 SECTOR OZ This OBSERVATION ZONE is the airspace above a 90 degree sector with its apex at the WAY POINT. This sector is:

a. For a TURN POINT, symmetrical to and remote from the bisector of the inbound and outbound LEGS of the TURN POINT,

b. For a START POINT, symmetrical to and remote from the outbound LEG,

c. For a FINISH POINT, symmetrical to and remote from the inbound LEG.

1.2.10 CYLINDER OZ This OBSERVATION ZONE is the airspace in a vertical cylinder of 0.5 kilometres radius centred on the WAY POINT.

1.2.11 OZ CORRECTION Each time a LEG rosses a CYLINDER OZ boundary, 0.5 kilometres shall be subtracted from the length of that LEG. This correction does not apply where
FLIGHT RECORDER fixes are used as WAY POINTS in free distance record performances.

1.2.12 HEIGHT PENALTY A distance equal to 100 times the excess over 1000 metres LOSS OF HEIGHT. (See 4.4.2 for how the penalty is applied.)

1.2.13 OFFICIAL DISTANCE The sum of the LEGS, with OZ CORRECTION deducted where applicable, less any applicable HEIGHT PENALTY.

1.3 Other Definitions

1.3.1 OFFICIAL OBSERVER The Official Observer (OO) is the person who has the official control of flights undertaken for FAI badge or record attempts and of the data gathered to prove a SOARING PERFORMANCE (see Chapter ).

1.3.2 DECLARATION The official description of the task and other data as listed and defined in 4.2.

1.3.3 BAROGRAPH A recording device measuring external air pressure.

1.3.4 BAROGRAM The trace, recording, or electronic data output of a BAROGRAPH.

1.3.5 FLIGHT RECORDER An electronic device that has been approved by the IGC to record data, including position and altitude, during a flight.

1.3.6 MoP RECORDER A device that either:

a. Records the time and altitude of any operation of the MoP or a change in configuration of the glider after which the MoP cannot be operated, or

b. Records the fact that the MoP is not being used. It must operate in such a way that failure of the device will indicate that the MoP is being used.

1.3.7 GEODESIC (Also geodesic line and geodesic distance.) The shortest distance between two points on the surface of an ellipsoidal world model. See also 4.4.1 and Annex C Appendix 2.

1.4 Types of Soaring Performance

1.4.1 General requirements

a. A SOARING PERFORMANCE may be claimed for gain of height, absolute altitude, duration, distance, and speed.

b. A SOARING PERFORMANCE may be claimed from any flight that meets the requirements of proof for that performance. (AL8)

c. A DECLARATION is required except where specifically not required in the rules.

d. WAY POINTS must be declared and used in the sequence declared except where specifically not required in the rules.

1.4.2 Altitude, gain of height, and duration performances.

No DECLARATION is required.

a. ABSOLUTE ALTITUDE

A SOARING PERFORMANCE measured for maximum altitude achieved. An absolute altitude performance is valid only if preceded by a GAIN OF HEIGHT of at least 5000 metres.

b. GAIN OF HEIGHT

A SOARING PERFORMANCE measured for GAIN OF HEIGHT.

c. DURATION

A SOARING PERFORMANCE measured for DURATION.

1.4.3 Free distance performances for records only.

The WAY POINT(S) of free distance record flight performances may be declared postflight. Free distance courses may be claimed in conjunction with any other flight course in 1.4.4, 1.4.5 and 1.4.6 using declared WAY POINT(S) if desired. The free distance record types are: (AL8)

a. FREE DISTANCE

A flight from a START POINT to a FINISH POINT with no TURN POINTS.

b. FREE OUT AND RETURN DISTANCE

A CLOSED COURSE flight having one TURN POINT.

c. FREE DISTANCE USING UP TO THREE TURN POINTS

A flight from a START POINT via up to three TURN POINTS to a FINISH POINT. The TURN POINTS must be at least 10 kilometres apart and may be claimed only once.

d. FREE DISTANCE AROUND A TRIANGLE

(i) A CLOSED COURSE flight via three TURN POINTS independent of the position of the START/FINISH POINT. The OFFICIAL DISTANCE is given by the sum of the LEGS of the triangle formed by the TURN POINTS.

(ii) A CLOSED COURSE flight via two TURN POINTS.

(iii) For record flights of 750 kilometres or more, no LEG of the triangle may have a length of less than 25% or more than 45% of the OFFICIAL DISTANCE. For shorter record flights, no LEG may have a length of less than 28% of the OFFICIAL DISTANCE.

Note that the start and finish points are not turn points unless specifically declared as such (this applies to 1.4.4b also).

1.4.4 Distance performances for badges and records

The following COURSES may be used only for distance flights:

a. STRAIGHT DISTANCE TO A GOAL

A flight from a START POINT to a declared FINISH POINT with no TURN POINTS.

b. DISTANCE USING UP TO THREE TURN POINTS

A declared flight from a START POINT via up to three TURN POINTS to a FINISH POINT. If the FINISH POINT is the landing place it need not be declared. The TURN POINTS must be at least 10 kilometres apart and may be claimed once, in any sequence, or not at all.

1.4.5 Distance performance for badges only

STRAIGHT DISTANCE

A flight from a START POINT to a FINISH POINT with no TURN POINTS. No WAY POINT DECLARATION is required unless a START POINT other than the RELEASE POINT is used or the FINISH POINT is also to be a GOAL.

1.4.6 Distance and speed performances for badges and records

The following COURSES may be used to claim distance and/or speed performances.

a. OUT AND RETURN FLIGHT

A CLOSED COURSE flight having one TURN POINT.

b. TRIANGLE FLIGHT

(i) A CLOSED COURSE flight via three TURN POINTS independent of the position of the START/FINISH POINT. The OFFICIAL DISTANCE is given by the sum of the LEGS of the triangle formed by the TURN POINTS.
The minimum OFFICIAL DISTANCE for this type of course is 300 kilometres.

(ii) A CLOSED COURSE flight via two TURN POINTS.

(iii) For records only, the restrictions on triangle geometry noted in 1.4.3d (iii) also apply.

1.4.7 Loss of height - alternate calculation for distance flights

A distance flight (1.4 4, href="sc3.1.4#5">1.4.5 and 1.4.6) starting as defined in 1.1.7b (a declared START POINT) may be claimed where the LOSS OF HEIGHT (1.2.7) is measured from the release height to the elevation of the finish point.

The release point is not the start of the course in this case.

2.0 General

2.0 GENERAL

The FAI badges are international standards of achievement that are not required to be renewed. Flights qualifying for badges shall be controlled in accordance with the requirements of this Code. The
distance requirement for each badge shall be the calculated official distance (1.2.13).

2.0.1 A flight may count towards any badge performance for which the conditions are fulfilled. The pilot must be alone in the glider, and the OO must certify that this was the case.

2.0.2 Badge flight registers.

Each NAC should keep a register of badge flights it has validated.

2.1 Badge Requirements

The soaring performances required to qualify for the FAI badge standards of achievement are:

2.1.1 Silver Badge The Silver badge is achieved on completing the following three soaring performances:

a. SILVER DISTANCE a flight on a straight course of at least 50 kilometres.

Any leg of 50 kilometres or more of a longer predeclared course may qualify, subject to the requirements of 4.4.2 on altitude difference applied to the whole course flown.

The Silver distance flight should be flown without navigational or other assistance given over the radio (other than permission to land on an airfield) or help or guidance from another aircraft.

b. SILVER DURATION a duration flight (1.2.5) of at least 5 hours.

c. SILVER HEIGHT a gain of height (1.2.8) of at least 1000 metres.

2.1.2 Gold Badge The Gold badge is achieved on completing the following three soaring performances:

a. GOLD DISTANCE a distance flight of at least 300 kilometres,

b. GOLD DURATION a duration flight of at least 5 hours,

c. GOLD HEIGHT a gain of height of at least 3000 metres.

2.1.3 Diamonds

There are three Diamonds, each of which may be worn on the Silver, Gold, and the badges for flights of 750 kilometres or more (see 2.1.4). NACs should maintain a register of these badges and on notification by a NAC, FAI will enter the names of pilots attaining the 3 Diamond award in an international register.

a. DIAMOND DISTANCE a distance flight of at least 500 kilometres.

b. DIAMOND GOAL a goal flight of at least 300 kilometres over an out-and-return or triangular course (1.4.6a and 1.4.6b).

c. DIAMOND HEIGHT a gain of height of at least 5000 metres.

2.1.4 Badges and Diplomas for flights of 750 kilometres and more

These are a family of badges that are achieved on completing a distance flight of 750 kilometres or more, in increments of 250 kilometres (ie. 750 km, 1000 km, 1250 km, etc.). One badge is awarded per flight for the incremental distance immediately less than the distance flown. NACs should maintain a register of these badges and on notification by a NAC, FAI will award a special Diploma for flights of 1000 km and more.

2.2 Badge Design

2.2.1 Silver and Gold Badge

2.2.2 Three Diamonds Badge (1 & 2 Diamonds similar)

2.2.3 750 Kilometre and more Badges (AL6)

(1000 km illustrated, others and with one and two Diamonds, similar.)

3.0 General

FAI world gliding record attempts require no advance notice provided that arrangements have been made for controlling the flight (5.1.2 and 5.1.3).

3.0.1 FAI Sporting Licence

The pilot must possess a valid FAI Sporting Licence (GS 8.1) in order to attempt and to claim an FAI world record.

3.0.2 Records in any one flight

Any record or records may be claimed for which the requirements are met. (AL8)

3.0.3 Verification of world records

World records must be verified with the evidence of a flight recorder approved by the IGC for world records. FRs with lower levels of approval are acceptable for the badges noted in their approval documents (see Annex C para 6.1) Other techniques described in this Code are acceptable for badges.

3.0.4 World record margins

A new record claim must exceed the current value by 1 kilometre for distance, 1 km/h for speed, and 3% for altitude.

3.0.5 Falsification of evidence - actions to be taken

Should it be proven that any person involved in a world record claim has altered, concealed, or in any other way misrepresented the claim's evidence with the intent to deceive, the claim shall fail. The FAI will invalidate Sporting Licences of those guilty of the fraud and may cancel permanently or for a period of time any other award, record, title, etc. it has conferred. The NAC(s) may be asked to cancel the appointment of the Official Observer(s) involved, where appropriate. (See also SC3 5.1.)

3.1 Record Categories, Classes and Types

Record categories are concerned with the pilot, record classes with the glider, and record types with the nature of the soaring performance.

3.1.1 Pilot categories There is a General ategory for all pilots, and a Feminine category where all members f the flight crew are female.

3.1.2 Aircraft classes World records are ecognised in the classes listed in 1.0.4. Mltiplace gliders and motor gliders are integrated into these ecord classes where applicable.

a. MULTIPLACE GLIDERS

All persons on board the glider must named on the claim form and be at least 14 years old. Only flight crew members possessing a valid Sporting Licence will be listed by name in the records of the FAI.

b. ALTITUDE RECORDS

Absolute altitude and gain of height records are listed in both pilot categories but only in the Open record class (3.1.4i and 3.1.4j).

3.1.3 Designation of records

Glider records are designated by code letters, starting with the FAI code letter for gliders (D), then the glider class concerned, and finally the pilot category (general or feminine)

Open Class glider records are designated by adding the letter O.

15m Class glider records are designated by adding the numbers
15.

World Class glider records are designated by adding the letter
W.

Ultralight glider records are designated by adding the letter U.

The General pilot category is designated by the letter G.

The Feminine pilot category is designated by the letter F.

Examples:

DWF - Gliding, World class, Feminine

D15G - Gliding, 15 metre class, General

TABLE 1

3.1.4 Types of record flights

Flight Performance	Ref.	Remarks (see Chapter 1 for details)
Distance records
3.1.4a Free Distance	1.4.3a	Way points claimed post-flight
3.1.4b Free Out-and-Return Distance	1.4.3b	Way points claimed post-flight
3.1.4c Free Three Turn Point Distance	1.4.3c	Up to 3 turn points claimed post flight
3.1.4d Free Triangle Distance	1.4.3d	Way points claimed post-flight
3.1.4e Straight Distance to a Goal	1.4.4a	Pre-declared goal with no turn points
3.1.4f Three Turn Point Distance	1.4.4b	Up to 3 pre-declared turn points
3.1.4g Out-and-Return Distance	1.4.6a	1 pre-declared turn point
3.1.4h Triangle Distance	1.4.6b	2 or 3 pre-declared turn points
Speed records
3.1.4i Speed over an out and return course of 500 km and all multiples of 500 km	1.4.6a	1 pre-declared turn point
3.1.4j Speed over a triangular course of 100, 300, 750, 1250 km; also 500 km and all multiples of 500 km	1.4.6b	2 or 3 pre-declared turn points
Altitude records
3.1.4k Absolute altitude	1.4.2a	Open class only, 5000m gain required
3.1.4m Gain of Height	1.4.2b	Open class only

3.1.5 Minimum achievement for new record classes
or types

Where a new record category, class or type is created, a minimum level of performance may be set by the IGC which must be exceeded before a world record will be validated. It may be published in this Code, or published separately by the FAI.

3.2 Time Limits on Record Claims

3.2.1 Notice of a claim for a world record must be submitted by either the NAC or the Official Observer controlling the attempt and must be received by the FAI within seven days of its completion as a record attempt. In exceptional circumstances, the president of the IGC may grant an extension. Telephone, fax, e-mail, and similar types of notification are acceptable. (GS 6.8.4)

3.2.2 A world record claim must be supported by a file containing all the information and certification necessary to prove that the conditions for a record have been met. The NAC shall forward this documentation to reach the FAI within 120 days of the date of the flight, after having approved it as a national record, unless an extension of time has been authorised by the IGC President (see GS 6.8.2).

NOTE At the IGC meeting 2004, it was decided that at some future date verification of badge flights will require the use of a flight recorder. Other means of verification shown in this edition of the
Sporting Code will no longer be accepted. October 2004.

4.1 Flight Data Requirements

The following is a list of all the flight data that needs to be gathered or measured to provide evidence of the completion of any soaring performance:

a. declaration (1.3.2)

b. start point (1.1.8)

c. start time (1.2.1)

d. start altitude (1.2.2)

e. turn point(s) (1.1.10)

f. finish point (1.1.12)

g. finish time (1.2.3)

h. finish altitude (1.2.4)

i. maximum altitude (1.4.2a)

j. gain of height (1.2.8)

k. flight continuity (4.3.4)

Different soaring performances will require different subsets of this list.

4.2 Declaration

For each flight, certain information is required to be recorded before the flight in order to ensure that proof of the soaring performance is available after the flight. This data, including waypoints (e) is known as the declaration. For some performances, some data is not required, but the Official Observer must ensure that all required data is recorded.

4.2.1 Declaration content

The information shall be written on a single sheet of paper or board, or recorded in the memory of a flight recorder prior to the flight. For world records only the latter applies.

a. Date of flight

b. Name of pilot in command/name of crew (if any)

c. Type and registration of glider

d. Type and serial number of barograph or flight recorder

e. Way points and the sequence to be flown, start, turn(s), finish/goal as applicable to the specific soaring performance * (See also 4.2.3)

f. Date and time of declaration

g. Signature of pilot in command **

h. Signature & name of OO, with date and time. **

* not required for free distance records

** not required for electronic declarations

4.2.2 Declaration validity - missed turnpoints

a. The last declaration made before takeoff is the only one valid for the flight, but a concurrently flown and different competition task is allowed.

b. If a declared turn point is abandoned, a closed course flight may still be claimed from the resulting shorter course provided that the turn points achieved are in the sequence specified in the
declaration.

Therefore, no turn points after a missed turn point may be claimed. See Annex C for examples of soaring performances allowed following the abandonment of a pre-declared course.

4.2.3 Use of waypoint lists in pre-flight declarations

Where waypoints are identified in the declaration by abbreviations or codes rather than by exact WGS84 lat/long or by exact geographical points, the key to the abbreviation or code must be attached to the claim. The key shall include the exact WGS84 lat/long or be the exact geographical point against each abbreviation or code used in the declaration, and it must be shown to have existed before the flight concerned.

4.3 Flight Data Verification

4.3.1 Flight data collection

A barograph or device incorporating a barograph must operate throughout the flight. The barogram so produced must provide indisputable verification of flight continuity (see 4.3.4) and of all altitudes critical to the soaring performance. The device may record parameters in addition to barometric pressure and time if it is suitable for the purpose (see 4.4). If data is recorded at intervals, the sampling rate setting must be no slower than once per minute.

For flight recorders, timing and pressure altitude data will be taken at the boundary of the observation zone interpolated between the times of valid fixes; or for a start or finish, this data may be taken from the fix in the observation zone which is most favourable to the pilot. See Annex C para 9.2.

4.3.2 Landing

The landing location must be certified by one or more of the following:

a. By an OO arriving soon after the event and there is no doubt about the position of landing or,

b. By two witnesses (see 5.2.3d),

c. By position data from a flight recorder (but see also 4.6.4a(ii)).

4.3.3 Achieving the goal

Where the soaring performance is required to end at a declared finish point, the goal will be achieved if:

a. The landing point is within 1000 metres of the declared finish point or,

b. If the finish point is an airfield, the landing is within the boundaries of the airfield or,

c. Satisfactory evidence is produced showing that the glider was in the observation zone and within 1000 metres of the finish point,

d. A finish line at the goal is crossed.

e. For any type of closed course goal flight where a start other than release or a start line is used, the glider must exit the start point OZ within 1000 metres of the declared start point.

4.3.4 Flight continuity

There must be evidence that the glider did not land or a means of propulsion was not used during the claimed soaring performance. An interruption in the barogram data will not compromise proof of flight continuity provided that the OO and NAC are convinced no critical data is missing and that the evidence for flight continuity remains indisputable.

a. The five hour duration flight (2.1.1b and 2.1.2b) does not require a barogram to prove flight continuity where the flight is made under the continual surveillance of an OO.

b. In the event of failure of the pressure altitude recording in a flight recorder, evidence of flight continuity may be assessed from a time plot of GNSS calculated altitudes provided the rule on the
setting of sampling rates is followed (4.3.1).

4.3.5 Altitude

Absolute altitude, gain of height, and start altitude must normally be verified from atmospheric pressure data recorded by a barograph. External measurement (see 4.7.1) may be used only when the required accuracy can be verified.

4.4 Calculations and Calibrations

Time, geographical position, altitude, and means of propulsion are flight performance data which must be either recorded or measured for some or all types of flights. Using this data, calculations of distance, speed, duration, gain of height, altitude difference, height penalties and start height may be done.

4.4.1 Calculations for distance and speed

For world records, distances between two points in excess of 1000 kilometres, and in any case of dispute over a distance, the distance flown is deemed to be the length of the geodesic line joining the start point and the finish point or, if there are turn points, the sum of the geodesic lines for each leg of the course, corrected as in 1.2.11. See Annex C, Appendices 2 and 3.

a. EARTH MODEL TO BE USED

For the purpose of the calculation of FAI geodesic distances, the WGS 84 earth model shall be used. See also Annex C, Appendix 2.

When calculation of the exact distance is not critical, less accurate methods may be used. See Annex C , para 1.6b.

b. GEOGRAPHICAL COORDINATES OF WAY POINTS

NACs are to specify procedures for recording the geographical coordinates of way points from maps of their national territory using geographical co-ordinates such as Latitude and Longitude, map grid, or national grid (if such a grid exists for the area
concerned).

c. MAP SCALES

Measurement of coordinates of way points should be from a map with a scale at least as detailed as 1:250,000, and preferably 1:50,000 (if such a map exists which includes the way point concerned). For
records, if a scale less detailed than 1:50,000 was used, the NAC should be able to show that co-ordinates were taken from the most accurate map available for the way point concerned.

4.4.2 Loss of height and application of the height penalty

a. For distance flights of more than 100 kilometres, where the loss of height (1.2.7) exceeds 1000 metres, a height penalty (1.2.12) must be subtracted from the length of the course to give the official distance.

b. For distance flights of 100 kilometres or less, a loss of height exceeding 1% of the length of the course will invalidate the soaring performance.

c. For speed and duration flights, a loss of height exceeding 1000 metres will invalidate the soaring performance.

4.4.3 Flight data requirements

The minimum flight data required for each type of soaring performance is given in Table 2.

Table 2 Minimum data requirements

Soaring Performance	Measurements				|	Calculations
	Time	Position	Height	MoP	|	Distance	Height	Speed
Distance	x	x	x	x	|	x	x
Goal	x	x	x	x	|	x	x
Duration	x		x	x	|		x
Altitude	x		x	x	|		x
Gain of height	x		x	x	|		x
Speed	x	x	x	x	|	x	x	x

4.4.4 Accuracy of measurement

The minimum accuracy of measurement and calculation required for each type of flight data is given in Table 3. Any inaccuracy in ameasurement or calculation is to be interpreted to the maximum
disadvantage of the pilot.

Table 3 Minimum accuracy requirements

Soaring Performance	Measurements				|	Calculations
	Time	Position	Height	MoP	|	Distance	Height	Speed
Distance	1 min	500 m		active	|	1 km	30 m
Goal	1 min	500 m		active	|	1 km	30 m
Duration	1 min			active	|		30 m
Altitude	1 min		1%	active	|		10 m
Gain of height	1 min		1%	active	|		10 m
Speed	5 sec	500 m		active	|	1 km	30 m	0.1 km/h

Precision of measurement
Care should be taken to correctly assess the precision of measurement devices so that an invalid level of accuracy is not introduced into calculations. See
Annex C for more information.

4.4.5 Combinations of measurement methods

Any combination of the measuring methods is acceptable for the various types of flights, provided the minimum requirements for accuracy of equipment in paragraphs 4.4.3 and 4.4.4 are fulfilled.

Each method used must comply with this Code as if it were the only means of proof employed.

4.4.6 Timing device calibration

When used, clocks and other time recording equipment shall be checked against official time signals both immediately before and again after the flight, covering a period of at least three hours. Any error found shall be taken into account and rounded up in the calculations. The GNSS time recording from a flight recorder may be used as an official time signal.

4.4.7 Barograph calibration
period

Barograph calibrations are required to ensure that the measurement of barometric pressure and time are checked against, and corrected as necessary, to official standards. For altitude and gain of height
records, both (a) AND (b) calibrations below are required, and the least favourable calibration of the two shall be used making the calculations for the record. For badges, start height verification,
and altitude difference calculation, either (a) OR (b) are required.

a. PRIOR TO THE FLIGHT

The calibration used must have been performed within 12 months prior to the flight or, for IGC-approved electronic barographs and FRs, 24
months.

b. AFTER THE FLIGHT

The calibration used must have been performed within one month after the flight or, for IGC-approved electronic barographs and FRs, two months.

4.4.8 Calibration correction

When absolute altitude (not altitude difference) is to be determined, the altitudes reached during a flight from the barograph evidence must be corrected for a height error arising from the actual atmospheric pressure of the day compared to the standard atmosphere.

The method of arriving at a corrected altitude is given in Annex C.

4.5 Time Measurement and Evidence

4.5.1 Time measurement

Time data requirements may be fulfilled by any of the following measuring methods:

a. By direct observation from the ground by an observer with direct access to approved time measuring equipment (e.g. a synchronised timepiece). If a timepiece displaying only minutes is used, 59
seconds is to be added to each duration measured to allow for the possibility that the reading was taken just before the minute changeover. Pilots and OOs should use timing devices with outputs in seconds whenever possible.

b. With a barograph, to measure time differences (except for speed flights),

c. With a time camera, to measure time differences (except for speed and duration flights),

d. A recording device with correct real time input, such as a flight recorder.

4.5.2 Time evidence

a. Evidence of timing and time recording of flights must be under the control of an OO. Time recording equipment carried on board a glider must be capable of being physically or electronically sealed and, where a human action is required, shall be sealed and unsealed only by the OO.

b. The equipment must be positioned so that the time parameters cannot be altered by the pilot or passenger during the flight.

c. If a means is provided for the pilot to make inputs into a device for remote recording of flight events, such inputs must be confined to functions not critical to the validation of the flight.

For example, it is permissible for a pilot to make a mark on the time base to register an event such as a particular position, or in GNSS systems to change the sampling rate in flight.

4.5.3 Night flight

A flight which continues beyond the hours of legal daylight in the country concerned shall not be validated, except where the glider and pilot comply with the laws of that country for night flight.

4.6 Position Measurement and Evidence

4.6.1 Position measurement

Flight position data requirements may be fulfilled by any of the following measuring methods:

a. By direct observation from the ground for start, turn, and finish points,

b. Satisfactory photographic evidence from a camera in the glider;

c. Satisfactory data from a flight recorder in the glider.

4.6.2 Position evidence - general

a. POINT OF RELEASE

Evidence of point of release may be provided by the pilot of the towplane or the person supervising the ground launch of the glider.

b. HEIGHT OF RELEASE

The height of release shall normally be obtained from a barogram. External measurement (see 4.7.1) may be used only when the required accuracy can be verified.

c. CROSSING A START LINE

(i) When the start line is controlled by observation from the ground, visual observation of a crossing in the direction of the first leg at an altitude of not more than 1000 metres above the line.

(ii) When using flight recorder evidence, by clear proof that the start line was crossed in the direction of the first leg.

d. CROSSING A FINISH LINE

(i) When the finish line is controlled by observation from the ground, the nose of the glider crosses the finish line unassisted from the direction of the last leg at a height of not more than 1000 metres above the line.

(ii) When using flight recorder evidence, by clear proof that the finish line was crossed from the direction of the last leg.

e. WAY POINTS

Way points should be of such a nature that they are easily recognisable from the air. Where photography is used, way points shall be point features and should be selected to make interpretation of photographs easy, even on photographs taken in
difficult light conditions such as low contrast. Where a flight recorder is being used for verification, the way point coordinates do not need to represent a point feature on the ground.

f. OBSERVATION ZONE

Evidence is required that the glider was within the observation zone (1.1.5) of a way point used during the flight. This may be collected by using one or more of the following
three methods:

(i) Direct observation, in which the glider is positively identified as being within the observation zone by an OO on the ground at the turn point. Magnification and tracking devices may be used.

(ii) Photographic, where the pilot presents a satisfactory photograph taken from within the observation zone in accordance with the rules for photographic evidence below.

(iii) Flight recorders, where (in accordance with the IGC rules for the use of this equipment (see 4.6.4), the data record shows incontrovertible proof that the glider was in the
observation zone, with one position fix recorded either exactly on the position of the waypoint or within the observation zone, or else a straight line drawn between two consecutive valid fixes crosses
the observation zone. See Annex C para 4.6 and 7.1c.

4.6.3 Photographic position evidence

Cameras can be used on badge flights to provide evidence of position and generally substantiate the soaring performance by means of a sequence of photographs on a single length of film. There shall be proof that all photographs were taken from the glider on the flight concerned and that turn point(s) were photographed between the start time and finish time.

a. PHOTOGRAPHIC CONTROL METHOD

The following method shall be used:

(i) Mounting in the cockpit

The camera must be held in fixed mountings in the cockpit so that every photograph will show the wingtip. The lens housing should be positioned inside the canopy or camera window so that the random line mentioned in (iii) below will show on the film (this does not apply to open-cockpit gliders). See Annex C para 3.4.

(ii) Sealing the camera

The camera must be sealed unless the same OO is controlling both the pre-flight photograph(s) and the processing of the film, in which case sealing is not necessary. When a time recording camera is used
to supply time evidence, it must be sealed by an OO before the flight in such a way that the film cannot be removed and the time adjusting mechanism cannot be accessed until the seal is broken by an OO after flight.

(iii) Before takeoff

Just prior to takeoff an OO shall mark the outside of the canopy or window across the front of the lens with a random line and display the flight declaration for the pilot to photograph with the camera
installed.

The random line should be dark or opaque and at least 3 mm wide if it is to show on the image.

(iv) After flight

Following landing and the completion of the photographic sequence, an OO shall take charge of the film and have it developed. Every effort is to be made to preserve the film as a continuous strip.
However, if it is cut or broken while out of control of the pilot or OO, this evidence remains valid if close examination of the pieces show that they form the original continuous length of film. An OO shall describe the circumstances under which the film was broken or cut.

b. PHOTOGRAPH SEQUENCE

The film shall contain photographs in the following sequence:

(i) the pre-flight clock synchronisation photo(s) if a time camera is used, (see 4.5.1c and 4.5.2a),

(ii) the declaration,

(iii) at least one photograph showing indisputable evidence of the presence of the glider in each of the observation zone(s) of the way point(s) used, in the correct sequence,

(iv) the glider on the landing field with surrounding features and its registration markings appearing clearly on the photo, or the above declaration with landing time added.

(v) the post flight synchronisation photo(s) if a time camera is used.

Photographs in (ii) and (iii) above must show the shape of the canopy mark (see 4.6.3a(iii)) on the film image. Additional photos which may have been taken after the declaration and before the landing must also show the canopy mark.

4.6.4 Flight recorder (GNSS) position and other evidence

All flight recorder evidence must be produced by an FAI/IGC approved system. The WGS84 Geodetic Datum shall be set for all Lat/Long data that is recorded and transferred after flight for analysis. Data
must be produced from a flight recorder that has an IGC-approval for the type of soaring performance that is claimed. Any FR used on the flight must comply with the conditions of its approval. The approval documents for each type of recorder will be posted on the FAI gliding/gnss web pages and shall specify procedures to be used, any limitations, and advice on its use. See Annex B Chapter 1.

a. FLIGHT RECORDER CONTROL METHOD

The OO shall familiarise himself with the terms of the approval for the GNSS and flight recorder equipment concerned. See Annex C, Appendix 6 para 2.3. There must be incontrovertible evidence, independent of the FR data, that the FR from which the flight data was taken was in the glider flown by the pilot during the claimed soaring performance.

(i) Before the flight

The OO shall sign the pilot's written flight declaration, except where the declaration is stored electronically in the flight recorder (1.3.2). The OO shall enter a secret code into the flight recorder if the IGC approval for the
equipment requires this. The flight recorder system shall be placed, configured or sealed in such a way that it will be physically impossible to operate any controls other than those specifically allowed for use in flight; and to connect or disconnect any device to the flight recorder system other than in accordance with the IGC approval for the equipment. The method(s) of sealing, if any, shall be specified in the IGC approval for the equipment.

(ii) Takeoff and landing

An OO shall ensure that there is evidence for the times and points of takeoff and landing, pilot(s) names, glider type and registration, and the type and serial number of the FR for flight evidence. This evidence shall be independent of the data produced by the FR. See Annex C para 11.3.

(iii) After flight

After landing, the flight data shall be transferred from the FR to a memory device acceptable to the NAC via a PC or other device in the manner specified in the IGC approval for the equipment. The OO shall check any seals which were applied before the flight. The flight data shall then be sent to a person approved by the NAC to make the analysis. This may be by physical dispatch of the memory device or by e-mail if acceptable to the NAC. For world record claims, a copy of the .igc file is to be sent to the FAI within 7 days along with the notification of a claim (see 3.2). This process must be performed for all FRs carried during the flight.

b. DATA ANALYSIS

Analysis of the flight data shall be performed by a qualified person, approved by the NAC, whose duty is to ensure that the appropriate evidence is present to verify the attainment of way points, heights, times and position. Analysis guidelines are in Annex C. Where there is more than one FR, the one holding the last declaration (the primary FR) shall normally be used for analysis. If the primary FR has a failure, a secondary FR may be used for verification provided it has the same declaration and flight data details. A difference in the declaration on a secondary FR from the primary FR could be grounds for refusal to accept any claim from that flight.

If the soaring performance qualifies for a badge or record, the following shall be forwarded to the NAC:

(i) The original data on the memory device (the first copy) storing the flight data for each FR. This must include the data file in *.igc format, and the file in its original format (if different) as transferred
from the flight recorder immediately after landing.

(ii) The appropriate claim form(s), including OO's evidence that manually recorded times and exact locations correspond to the equivalent flight recorder data.

(iii) For free record flights, the achieved way points shall be determined from the flight recorder evidence and specified in the claim for the record. The flight recorder "pilot event marker", if incorporated, may be used to indicate the desired waypoint position(s).

(iv) Any other measured data and/or auxiliary material required by a NAC to support the mandatory evidence. See examples in Annex B, Appendix 1.

4.7 Altitude Evidence and Control

4.7.1 Altitude evidence

Altitude data requirements may be fulfilled by any of the following measuring methods:

a. A barogram,

b. Optical measurement from the ground (e.g. a suitable height frame or theodolite),

c. Radar measurement from the ground,

d. For continuity of flight purposes only, the GNSS altitude output of a flight recorder.

4.7.2 Altitude control methods

For altitude recording other than by external measurement, a barograph or flight recorder must be carried in the glider. Any marking of the barogram during flight shall be done by remote control, not by direct access to the barograph itself. The barograph shall be placed in the glider in such a way that no part of the barograph is accessible to the pilot or passenger during the flight.

The pressure altitude recording system in a flight recorder is a barograph and must comply with other rules in the Code for barographs and their calibration. Altitude control methods for flight recorders are the same as those used for position evidence (see 4.6.4).

a. BEFORE TAKEOFF

(i) Mechanical barographs

The OO shall make an identification mark on the barogram paper/foil and then seal the barograph.

(ii) Electronic barographs

The OO shall seal the barograph and then enter a secret multi-character code into the barograph memory before flight (a second entry of this code shall be required to retrieve the stored data). This step is not required if the barograph stores continuous date and time data which cannot be altered without the fact of such alteration being automatically reported on all data printouts from
its memory after such alteration, and the OO is able to verify the date and time of the takeoff and landing of the glider on the flight concerned.

b. DURING THE FLIGHT

As soon as possible after release, the pilot of the glider should ensure that a low point is indicated on the barogram to clearly indicate the start of the soaring performance.

c. AFTER THE FLIGHT

(i) The OO shall take control of the barograph, and ensure that its seal is secure and that the barogram has the identification mark placed on it prior to takeoff. The information required in paragraph
6.1 may then be added to the chart.

(ii) For electronic barographs, an OO must either supervise the transfer or printing of data from the barograph while it is in the glider, or supervise the removal of the electronic barograph from
the glider and shall then take charge of it until the flight data is printed out. The OO then confirms that the date and time on the printout is correct and that the date and times of the altitudes and
other flight data recorded and printed out correspond to the date and times of the flight concerned, and correspond with other relevant aspects of the claimed performance.

4.8 Means of Propulsion Evidencs and Control

4.8.1 Means of propulsion evidence

The requirement to record data on the use of any MoP may be fulfilled by any of the following methods:

a. The data is recorded by a MoP recorder, or

b. By direct observation from the ground that the MoP has stopped,provided that there is no means of restarting it, or

c. By a seal applied to the MoP in such a way that the generation of forward thrust by the MoP always results in breaking the seal.

d. For World Records, where a MoP recorder is required, it must be incorporated as part of the flight recorder.

4.8.2 MoP control methods

a. With the use of an MoP recorder:

The MoP recorder must be sealed and opened only by an OO, and mustnot be accessible to pilot or crew during flight, except where it is an IGC approved flight recorder operated in accordance with the IGC
approval.

b. Without the use of an MoP recorder:

(i) Before takeoff, the MoP may be sealed by an OO as in 4.8.1c (and the OO shall certify that the seal was intact after landing), or

(ii) The MoP may be rendered unusable by removing an essential part of the engine or the propeller (and the OO must certify that this was done), or

(iii) The MoP may have a mechanical lock applied to the retraction system that cannot be unlocked until after landing.

c. For World Records the MoP recorder must be of a type (see 4.8.1d.), which records the use of the MoP automatically, without any special action by the pilot and it must not be capable of being switched off during the flight, nor require a special type of mounting within the glider to enable it to operate.

5.1 Authority

5.1.1 Official Observer appointment

OO are appointed by a National Airsport Control (NAC) on behalf of the FAI and IGC. Directors of contests sanctioned by FAI or a NAC are automatically also OOs for badge or record flights undertaken during a contest.

5.1.2 OO duties

The OO shall, as the FAI and IGC representative, control and certificate the following soaring performances:

a. Record flights and FAI badge flights,

b. Flights in international championships and competitions sanctioned by the FAI,

c. Other soaring performances that NACs may specify and define within their sphere of influence.

5.1.3 Control and certification

a. CONTROL is the observing of takeoff, start, finish and landing and, where applicable, the timing of individual events such as declarations, sealing, installation, removal and unsealing of barographs, flight recorders and cameras, motor glider means of
propulsion and other devices.

b. CERTIFICATION is the checking of evidence and signing of appropriate certificates covering the evidence concerned.

5.1.4 Competence

a. OOs must be knowledgeable in the Code and have the integrity, skill and competence necessary to control and certificate glider and motor glider flights without favour. Before being approved by the NAC, the OO should be given briefing or training appropriate to the duties of an OO.

b. For World Records, the OO must be approved for this role, in writing, by the controlling NAC. Previous satisfactory experience as an OO for FAI badges or National records where flight recorders were used should be required before approval is given. Where more than one OO is involved, an OO with the NAC approval shall oversee and where necessary, certify that the work of other OOs is correctly verified.

(The approved OO may be identified by the title "Senior OO" or similar.)

5.1.5 Geographical area of authority

OOs are entitled to control and certificate flights of gliders and motor gliders in:

a. The country of their own NAC, and

b. In any country and for glider pilots of any nationality, if the country's NAC (the controlling NAC) so permits.

(See Sporting Code General Section 6.4)

c. For World Records, the approved OO must have written authorisation from the NAC controlling the flight. (see 5.1.4 b)

5.1.6 Conflict of interest

(Ref FAI Code of Ethics, http://www.fai.org/documents/otherdocs/code_ethics)

All persons involved in data review and claim approval must ensure the claim is evaluated objectively according to the rules and procedures required by the Sporting Code and conforming to the FAI Code of Ethics.
As such:
a. Official Observers may not act for any record or badge attempt in which they have any financial interest or in which they are pilot or passenger. *

*Ownership of the glider or motor glider shall not be considered "financial interest". The essence is that monetary or other substantial gain shall not depend on the successful certification of the claim by the OO or other individual concerned.

b. No person involved in homologating a world record claim may have any special personal interest in the outcome of that claim.

5.1.7 Violation of duty

In case of violation of duty, the appointment of the OO shall be withdrawn. In addition, negligent certifications or wilful misrepresentations are grounds for disciplinary action by the NAC concerned. (See also 3.0.5)

5.2 Certification of Events

5.2.1 General

a. The date, times and points of takeoff and landing on the flight concerned must be verified, and there must be evidence that recording devices used for flight evidence were in the glider concerned during the flight.

b. Record and badge flights shall be certificated by the OO by completing and verifying the information in the official FAI record claim forms or, for national records or badge performances, claim forms containing similar information (see 6.4).

5.2.2 OO presence at the event

OOs may certificate individual events (such as sealing and breaking seals, installation and removal of equipment, takeoff, timing at start and finish, landing, etc.) if they were present at the event for which certification is required, or are able to satisfy themselves either through evidence from persons who witnessed the event or from other reliable sources. Evidence from air traffic control or club flying logs may be used. Barometric pressure may be obtained from the log of a nearby meteorological office.

5.2.3 Certification by non-OOs

a. Certification of events by people other than OOs must be countersigned by an OO after verifying the statements.

b. Air traffic controllers on duty may certificate observations of takeoffs, start and finish lines, turn and control points and landings.

c. Tow pilots or, for launches other than by towplane, the person supervising the launch may certify the point of release from launch.

d. Outlandings may be certified by two independent witnesses who give their names, addresses, and preferably telephone numbers, if any (see 6.2).

6.0 General

All certifications and calibrations must clearly relate to the flight, event, or equipment being certified or calibrated, and include the date of the certification/calibration, the signature of the person doing the certification/calibration and, where applicable, the OO's signature. Each separate sheet of paper must have this identification. Diskettes or other electronic memory devices storing flight or calibration data must be labelled clearly.

6.1 Barogram

Except as permitted for flight recorders and electronic barographs (see 4.6.4 and 4.7.2), a barogram shall have the following information clearly registered on it:

a. Identification mark of OO before takeoff,

b. For altitude and gain of height records, the pressure at ground level (QFE) at time of takeoff,

c. Date of flight,

d. Name of pilot,

e. Type, serial number and altitude range of barograph,

f. Type and registration of glider,

g. Altitude of release (or of stopping the means of propulsion for motor gliders),

h. Proof of no intermediate landing,

i. Date and signature of OO after landing.

Additionally, if the barograph is also the MoP recorder:

j. Means of propulsion was stopped prior to leaving the start point,

k. Means of propulsion was not used between the start point and the finish point.

6.2 Landing Certificate

The landing certificate shall state precisely the location of the landing place and the time of landing.

6.3 Barograph Calibration Certificate

The barograph calibration certificate shall include:

a. Type, serial number and altitude range of barograph,

b. Date of calibration,

c. Calibration trace, graph or table,

d. Date, name and signature of calibration laboratory official.

6.4 Timing Device Calibration Statement

The timing device calibration statement shall include:

a. Type and serial number of timing device used,

b. Description of method for (and result of) calibration of the timing device (4.4.6),

c. Date and signature of OO or calibration laboratory official doing the calibration.

6.5 FAI Record Claim Forms

For claims submitted to the FAI, the current FAI Official Claim Forms approved by IGC must be used. For national claims, the NAC may issue its own forms similar to the FAI versions. When submitted to the FAI, the pages of each form should be printed on one sheet of paper such as by using back-to-back printing on A3 size paper (or 11" x 17" paper in North America).

Designation	Record type	Remarks
Form A	Absolute Altitude or Gain of Height
Form B	Distance
Form C	Speed
Form D	Motor Gliders	Form D is additional to other forms if appropriate to the claim.
Form E	Completed by all NACs involved	Must be included with claim file.

The FAI forms ( new versions, November 2007) are attached to this page (see below) and are available in hard copy from the FAI office and NACs.

7.0 General

This chapter gives the class structure and some general rules for FAI World Soaring Championships and other international competitions. Class rules also apply to world records (see Chapter 1).

More detailed rules for World Championships and International Competitions are given in Annex A to this code (SC3A) and also in the General Section of the FAI Sporting Code. For convenience, where "competition" shows in any of these rules, the rule applies to both World Championships and international competitions. If claims are made for badges and records, the provisions of the Code have to be fulfilled regardless of the regulations of the competition concerned.

7.1 Conformity with Class Rules

7.1.1 Record flights

An OO shall certify that the glider used for a record flight complies with the requirements for the class rules of the record classification involved and shall certify any measurement and checking required.

7.1.2 Competitions

Gliders shall be presented to the competition organiser as prescribed in the local regulations in order to be checked and measured for compliance with class rules.

7.1.3 Measurement of wing span

Wing span, for the purpose of measurement for conformity with class rules, is the maximum distance between the two planes tangent to the wing tips and parallel to the glider plane of symmetry and the weight of each wing supported to allow the wing to match its unloaded shape.

The unloaded shape depends on the design of the glider, but will generally mean that the trailing edge is straight along the length of the wing.

7.2 Eligibility of Gliders

7.2.1 Airworthiness certificates

A glider may be flown in a competition only if it holds a valid Certificate of Airworthiness or Permit to Fly not excluding competition flying and complies with the conditions of its airworthiness document and the rules of the class in which it is entered.

7.2.2 Change of components

Except where specifically allowed in the Championship rules (see Annex A) a glider shall fly throughout a competition as a single structural entity using the same set of wings or wing components, fuselage and tail unit.

7.3 Mass Limits

The organisers of competitions may limit the maximum mass of a glider in any class. Any such limitations must be stated in the official bid and must be approved by the IGC.

7.4 Handicapping

If handicapping is to be used, its purpose shall be to equalise the performance of gliders as far as possible. The handicap figures used shall be directly proportional to the expected cross-country speeds of gliders in typical soaring conditions for the competition concerned. The handicap shall be applied directly to the speed or distance achieved, for finishers to the speed only, for non-finishers to the distance only. Competitors completing the task shall not be given less than full distance points, and competitors not completing the task shall not be given more than full distance points. Any list of handicaps proposed for a competition must be approved by the IGC.

7.5 Time Scale for Class Changes

The minimum period between the announcement and implementation of a new class or major alteration to the rules of an existing class shall not normally be less than four years. Minor alterations not requiring design changes shall normally have two years notice. The IGC may reduce the period of notice for special reasons.

7.6 World Championships

7.6.1 World Soaring Championships classes

World Soaring Championships are organised in the classes defined in 7.7, Women's Championships (7.8.2a) and Junior Championships (7.8.2b) may also be organised at the World
Championship level.

7.6.2 Motor gliders

Motor gliders are integrated into the other championship classes (except the World Class which is a one-design class) under championship rules for motor gliders (see Annex A).

7.7 Competition Classes

See also 7.3.

7.7.1 Open Class No special rules.

7.7.2 18 Metre Class The only limitation is a maximum span of 18,000 mm (7.1.3).

7.7.3 15 Metre Class The only limitation is a maximum span of 15,000 mm (7.1.3).

7.7.4 Standard Class

a. WINGS

The span (7.1.3) must not exceed 15,000 mm. Any method of changing the wing profile other than by normal use of the ailerons is prohibited. Lift increasing devices are prohibited,
even if unusable.

b. AIRBRAKES

The glider must be fitted with airbrakes which cannot be used to increase performance. Drag parachutes are prohibited.

c. UNDERCARRIAGE

The undercarriage may be fixed or retractable. The main landing wheel shall be at least 300 mm in diameter and 100 mm in width.

d. BALLAST

Water ballast which may be discharged in flight is permitted.

7.7.5 World Class

The World Class glider is the PW-5 design which was the winner of the 1994 World Class design competition. All gliders must be built to the IGC specifications for the World Class and must conform to all applicable IGC rules. No modifications are permitted except as approved and circulated in writing by FAI to all NACs on behalf of the IGC.

a. ALTERATION TO AIRFLOW

Any alteration affecting airflow around the glider is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, the use of turbulation devices, fairings, and special surface treatment. The only exceptions are:

(i) a yaw string,

(ii) a total energy probe,

(iii) adhesive tape to seal gaps between wings, fuselage and tail. Sealing between moveable control surfaces and the airframe is not permitted.

b. ELECTRICAL DEVICES

Electrical and electronic devices are allowed, including instruments and navigational aids.

c. BALLAST

Ballast which can be jettisoned in flight is prohibited. In a World Class competition, a mass shall be specified by the Competition Director between the maximum gross mass and the lowest takeoff mass attainable by the heaviest entrant. To attain the specified mass each glider shall incorporate a fixed ballast system approved by the IGC, which may include tail ballast.

d. CENTRE OF GRAVITY CONTROL

Any device capable of altering the centre of gravity location of the glider during flight is prohibited.

7.7.6 Club Class

The purpose of the Club Class is to preserve the value of older high performance gliders, to provide inexpensive but high quality international championships, and to enable pilots who do not have access to gliders of the highest standard of performance to take part in contests at the highest levels.

a. ENTRY

The only limitation on entry of a glider into a Club Class competition is that it is within the range of handicap factors agreed for the competition.

b. BALLAST

Water ballast is not permitted.

c. SCORING

A Club Class championship shall be scored using formulas which include handicap factors (7.4).

7.7.7 20 Metre Multi-Seat Class

a. ENTRY
The 20m multi-seat class consists of multi-seat gliders having a crew of two persons. If handicaps are to be used the glider must have a handicap factor within the range agreed for the competition.

b. CREW
The crew shall consist of two pilots who must represent the same NAC and have a Sporting Licence issued by that NAC. The winning crew shall jointly hold the title, Champion.

c. WINGS
The span must not exceed 20,000mm.

d. BALLAST
Water ballast that may be discharged in flight is permitted.
(See Annex A 4.2.1)

e. SCORING
The 20 metre multi-seat class may be scored using formulas that include handicap factors (see 7.4).

7.8 International Competitions

7.8.1 International competitions may be held in the World Championship classes (7.7) and in other classes specifically approved by the IGC.

7.8.2 Restricted entry championships

a. Women's championships

Championships in one or more of the approved classes, which are open to female flight crew members only.

b. Juniors' championships

Championships in one or more of the approved classes, which are open to pilots whose 25th birthday occurs in the calendar year (1 January to 31 December) which includes the date of the start of the championships, or occurs later.