SAFA Skysailor Magazine

37 January | February 2022 SKY SAILOR PIC had commenced landing when they en- countered some turbulence from a releasing thermal bubble. They applied excess brake input to control the wing, which left them with not enough energy for a positive flare. This, combined with sink, resulted in a heavy landing and a rolled ankle – PIC was wearing low-cut hiking shoes. They radioed their supervisor and other pilots came to assist. PIC was able to walk out of the LZ with assistance and drove themselves to a medical clinic where a fractured lower tibia was diagnosed. Pilots need to be aware of the possibility of encountering thermals releasing in the landing area at inland sites. Excessive brake input should be avoided so as to maintain speed and energy for landing. Adjust heading using weight- shift and use light application of brake input if required. Always wear appropriate footwear for our sports. AIRS #1345: Rolled ankle ground handling, PG/NSW A PUI was ground handling at Manilla (NSW), on Day 7 of their course and practising reverse inflation. Whilst dropping the glider in reverse per the usual process, they had to take some steps towards the glider as required for the wind strength (15-20km/h). The pilot became slightly unbalanced and rolled an ankle during the 3-4 steps taken towards the glider. The pilot was wearing ‘runners’ and noted that they had their hiking boots in their room. The report is a timely reminder to all that wearing proper footwear is important not just Human Factors Air (the environment) -Man (I’m safe) -Ship (the aircraft) I’M SAFE Illness? Do I have an illness or any symptoms of an illness or disorder? Medication and other drugs? Have I been taking or mixing prescription, over-the-counter or recreational drugs? Stress? Am I under psychological pressure from my job or personal circumstances? Am I worried about financial matters, health problems or family matter? Alcohol? Have I been consuming alcohol within the previous eight hours? Is my blood alcohol level less than 0.02? Would my average alcohol consumption be greater than ‘very low risk’? Fatigue? Am I tired or inadequately rested? Eating and Drinking? Am I adequately nourished and hydrated?