SAFA Skysailor Magazine

62 SKY SAILOR March-April-May | AUTUMN 2025 situation and landed in knee deep water. They unclipped as the wing was filling and pulling into the sea. Their gear was recovered with assistance. Pilots are reminded to maintain adequate separation from terrain. Fly crabwise across the face of the ridge, not directly towards, or parallel if there is an onshore wind. #1661 – 13th Beach Road HG landing, Vic PIC was flying their single-surface (aka floater) hang glider at 13th Beach (Vic), their first visit to this site. They top-landed on a dune to await improved conditions. On re-launching they flew east, then returned to top-land again at launch, but found the preferred landing area crowded with gliders ready to fly. PIC set up to land in a small clearing at the back of the dune, but was unable to penetrate forward. They landed vertically with the nose wires touching the fence. No damage or injury. Pilots must be aware of the capabilities of their aircraft, in particular when penetrating forward into stronger airflow and account for this in their flight plans in general as well as their landing plans. This applies equally to paragliders and hang gliders. #1672 – PG 21/04/2022, Manilla, NSW PIC was flying their paraglider from Mt Borah, Manilla (NSW) and on approach to landing they encountered some unexpected sink. PIC landed in a tree a few metres short of the landing zone. No damage or injury resulted. Always have an alternate plan for a safe landing if unexpected lift or sink occurs on approach. Do not become fixated on obstacles. AIRS Safety wrap-up