What is a "glider tow"?

A "glider tow" refers to the process of being pulled into the air by a powered aircraft, which is commonly used to launch gliders. During this operation, the glider is attached to a towline that connects it to the towing aircraft. As the powered aircraft ascends, it effectively lifts the glider into the air, allowing it to gain altitude before the towline is released.

This method of launching is efficient and is widely practiced because it allows gliders to reach the desired altitude quickly and enables pilots to access thermals for soaring. Other methods of launching, like using a catapult system, involve different mechanisms and are not classified as glider tows. Additionally, the other options describe different aviation techniques that do not relate to the specific action of towing a glider into the sky.