SAFA Skysailor Magazine

68 SKY SAILOR March-April-May | AUTUMN 2025 wing but did not run back towards it as it was deflating. PIC was then plucked off the ground and the wing landed in a tree. Observe constantly for changing wind conditions. When strong wind landing, land into wind and be prepared to turn, face wing and run towards it when flared, or kill it with the rear risers. #2043 – PG tree landing, NSW PIC was flying their paraglider at Possum’s (NSW). This was their second flight on a new, 2-line EN-C wing, and their first in thermic conditions. After some initial soaring, they and another, more expe- rienced pilot set-off on a small out-and- return flight. PIC was unable to make a crossing that the other pilot had made and elected to return to a previous thermal location. PIC arrived low and made the decision to fly into leeside rotored air in an attempt to gain the hoped for climb. The wing responded to the bad air, resulting in a cravat in each wingtip. PIC applied the appropriate response to maintain flight (weight-shifting away from the ridge) but had insufficient authority to avoid a tree landing. PIC was left suspended 30m above the ground, so secured themselves in place and awaited extraction assistance. Pilots are reminded that your new wing will not behave in the same manner as your previous wing for a given set of conditions. Take the time to learn the characteristics of your equipment before exploring limits. Be aware of the hazards of flying leeside of terrain or an obstruction; rotor and downdrafts await and you will need adequate clearance from hazards and terrain to correct any subsequent problems and collapses. That’s it for this issue folks. Fly safe. AIRS Safety Wrap-up