A glider plane, also known as a sailplane, typically takes off using one of two methods: aerotow or winch launch.
In an aerotow, a powered aircraft, usually a small airplane or a helicopter, tows the glider into the air using a rope. The glider pilot releases the rope at a predetermined altitude and the glider then flies on its own.
In a winch launch, a winch, powered by a vehicle such as a car or truck, pulls the glider along a runway at high speed until it reaches sufficient speed to take off.
Both methods allow gliders to take off without an engine, instead relying on the initial lift provided by these methods to start the flight. Once in the air, the glider can use rising air currents to gain altitude and continue flying.
