Who holds the responsibility to determine the airworthiness of a glider?

The responsibility to determine the airworthiness of a glider firmly rests with the Pilot in Command. This is because the Pilot in Command is ultimately accountable for the safe operation of the aircraft, including ensuring that it meets all necessary regulations and standards for airworthiness before flight.

The pilot conducts pre-flight checks and inspections to assess the glider’s condition, including its structural integrity, control systems, and any other factors that might affect its performance and safety. This responsibility includes verifying that maintenance has been performed according to regulations and that the glider is equipped with all required documents such as the logbooks and airworthiness certificate.

While the aircraft owner may also have a role in maintaining the glider and ensuring it is kept in airworthy condition, the pilot must make the final determination before takeoff. Flight mechanics are skilled professionals who assist with the maintenance and repairs, but they do not have the ultimate responsibility for airworthiness. Air traffic control towers facilitate the safe movement of aircraft in the airspace and ground but do not play a role in determining the airworthiness of individual aircraft.