On Thursday, April 25, 2019 at 3:28:07 PM UTC-7, SoaringXCellence wrote:
However a WINGS phase has both knowledge and flight elements. What flight elements are you planning on doing in the glider?

I just went back and reviewed the WINGS program process to confirm my understanding.

FYI: I am a FAAST WINGS representative and I do a lot of validation for pilots in my area. I'm also a pilot examiner for airplanes and gliders.

The WINGS flight activities are related to the current pilot certificate you hold. You cannot do glider flight activities to complete a WINGS phase if you do not hold a glider rating. That's the rub. You CAN use the glider knowledge activities to fill the required 3 knowledge credits, but the flight activities need to be in the category/class of aircraft for which you CURRENTLY hold a certificate.

As noted in the WINGS program brochu there is no requirement for the flight activities to be done on separate days (but it is recommended) nor is it required that the activities be done in separate flights or for longer than is needed for the CFI to determine that you skills are appropriate for your certificate level. It actually might be cheaper to do a short flight in the SEL to show proficiency than to do a few more tows in the glider.

My short answer (I know too late) is to participate in the SSA webinars (and others) while you train. Refresh your flight skills during glider training time then find a CFI in airplanes that is willing to do a short airplane review flight and sign off your WINGS activities. You can then be signed off to do PIC flights in a category/class aircraft for which you are not rated (glider) and get your solo requirements completed to take the practical test.

Whew!