SAFA Skysailor Magazine

38 SKY SAILOR July | August 2024 or hill soaring. If one wing enters ridge or hill wind gradients the glider may tend to turn into the ridge. #1569 – HG accident Ben Nevis launch, Vic PIC arrived with their hang glider at Ben Nevis (Vic). After the pre-flight inspection and hang check, they launched into a moderate cycle, flew straight out from launch and gained approximately 150ft of altitude. Then, when going prone, they accidentally deployed their reserve parachute, mistaking the reserve handle for the harness zip line. The reserve filled, the glider inverted and was then blown back towards launch, impacting the rock face below and to the left of launch. PIC, who was wearing thick winter gloves, climbed into the frame once the wing went inverted. Damage to the glider: Two downtubes, right outer leading edge and sleeve, rear wires, left crossbar and sail. Pilot injuries consisted of a bruised ankle and a cut to an elbow. Care needs to be taken when wearing thicker gloves that the correct piece of equipment is being accessed. #1812 – HG failed to clip in, Ocean Grove Vic PIC was preparing to launch their hang glider at Ocean Grove (Vic) in 18kt of wind. PIC failed to clip harness into glider and failed to recognise this. The glider self-launched as they were lifting it to launch, PIC then realised they were not clipped in, released their grip on the glider, which then flew, and crash landed to the rear of launch. No injuries or glider damage sustained. Always conduct a hang check! If no others are present to assist, hold the front wires and ‘sit’ in the harness and make sure the hang strap becomes taut and leg loops are on. We’ll switch disciplines and head over the border to NSW… #1810 – PG launch with twisted risers to a tree landing, NSW PIC was preparing to launch their paraglider from the Dudley Street launch at Bombala (NSW). On inflation, the wing had a cravat on the right wing. They pumped out the cravat using the brake, but in doing so were pulled onto their toes, losing authority in manoeuvring on the sloping ground. As a result, they were unable to turn to the right as per normal, were turned to the left and were then lifted into the air with the risers twisted. Now in the air, they lost recognition of the brake orientation and applied the left brake. This turned them towards the surrounding vegetation, and they were caught by a low tree/bush. No damage or injury. Be prepared to deflate/collapse the wing to clear a problem that appears on inflation. If pulled into the air twisted, concentrate on aviating until you have sufficient clearance from terrain and obstacles, remembering that brake inputs will be reversed if you are facing away from the direction of travel. Once in clear air, reach up and pull the risers apart to untwist. It is likely that the twist will clear itself without input, as this is the tendency with simple twists. AIRS Safety Wrap-up