SAFA Skysailor Magazine

37 July | August 2022 SKY SAILOR If you find yourself forced into a tree, what should you do? Let’s refresh our memory from the AIRS report wrap-up in the Nov/Dec 2019 SkySailor, where I discussed tree landings: First, pick a low tree or bush; if not available choose the sturdiest tree specimen on offer. For paragliders, aim to land in the crown of the canopy. Flare to place yourself into the canopy, but not so much that you swing back out. For hang gliders, stay zipped into the harness and flare to plop into the top. If heading for the side, flare aggressively. In all cases grab onto a branch and hang on. Once in the tree, do not get out of the harness and try to climb down. Secure yourself, call for help on radio or phone and wait for assistance to arrive. There are well documented cases of pilots making a safe tree landing, then falling to their deaths after releasing themselves from their harness. Learnings Pilots must always plan several steps ahead and have room to deal with the unexpected. Keep looking up and ahead, scanning along the flight path for obstacles or hazards, and keep in mind the closest safe landing area. Always maintain a safe margin from obstacles and terrain. A lapse in concentration, a dis- traction or change in weather conditions may require some height to correct any oversight. Pilots flying an unfamiliar wing should first go ground-handling before taking to the air. When flying a site in a crossed wind direc- tion, always be aware of potential sources of Forms and Documents SAFA Documents are now available in the Member Zone of the SAFA website . To access them select then select ‘Documents’ in the left-hand menu. These documents are constantly updated, so download them only when required. DO NOT save them for later use. The office will not accept outdated forms. Documents available to the general public are accessible on the website under: ‘Pilot Tools’  Forms & Docs Visiting Pilot Membership Pilots requiring Visiting Pilot Memberships please go to www.safa. asn.au/visiting-international-pilots SAFA Office Manager rotor. Follow site briefing instructions closely and take the opportunity on the ground to discuss flight paths for various wind directions. This pilot did the right thing when it all came to a stop, of securing themselves and awaiting assistance – DO NOT get out of the harness and attempt to descend, unless you have a self-rescue kit and are familiar with the tech- niques required. Pilots are reminded that a full pre-flight check must be undertaken before EACH launch attempt especially if it is a relaunch after a ‘bundle and walk’. When flying low, scratching for lift, it is always tempting to try anything to remain