SAFA Skysailor Magazine

44 SKY SAILOR March | April 2022 by other pilots as erratic – strong, spring-time air, with climbs in the 5m/sec range. Whilst in light lift, searching for a core, their lightweight high EN-B wing took an asymmetric collapse of the left wing, and immediately twisted three times. PIC attempted to untwist the risers, but this only caused additional twists. The pilot threw their reserve and landed in a tree, 6-7m above the ground. They utilised their tree rescue kit and made a safe self-extraction to the ground. No injury sustained, with minor damage to the wing and reserve. Pilots are advised to consider the possibility of stronger conditions in spring, and ensure their reserve has been repacked, as this one had. If needed, make the decision to throw the reserve early. Do not attempt to self-extract from a tree-landing unless you are carrying a well-equipped kit and trained to accomplish this; wait for assistance to arrive. This pilot had practiced this task several times previously. We’ll finish up with a couple of reports from southern Queensland… AIRS #1373 – Thermal popping off close to landing caused an increase in ground speed and loss of height A PG2 pilot was flying at Beechmont (Qld/S) and had made their way to Hinchcliffe’s. They had caught a small thermal while low and taken an asymmetric collapse which was corrected, then decided to land in the LZ. On an into-wind approach and at 3m agl, a small thermal released, causing the final approach to turn to a tailwind landing. PIC could not run it out and ended up spraining an ankle – trainers worn instead of boots. Pilots are advised to wear appropriate footwear to minimise the risk of injury. In such situations be prepared to execute a PLF (Parachute Landing Fall) . AIRS #1607 – Incident at North Sunshine Beach The PIC was flying Northend site at Sunshine Beach (Qld/S) and achieving good altitude above the south-facing ridge. The wind started to swing SE, resulting in the south-facing ridge not creating much lift. PIC began to lose al- titude and headed west along the south-facing ridge towards launch, staying close to the ridge and slightly tailwind. They attempted to turn out from the hill but lost too much altitude, and impacted a small tree, which hit the back of their helmet, knocking it off. The PIC suffered a nosebleed and scratches on their legs. Pilots assisted in retrieving the wing, which was undamaged. After resting on launch to make sure no residual effects from the impact were present, the pilot returned home. The Safety Officer debriefed the pilot on the incident. Northend site is predominately south-facing. It can be flown in a SE wind but needs more strength to maintain height and the south-fac- ing ridge generally doesn’t work well, but the bowl still does. Pilots need to monitor winds changing whilst flying and take appropriate action. If losing altitude, push away from the ridge and land, or if at enough height, try the SE facing bowl. Always fly with enough height and distance from the ridge to make a safe landing and remember when turning with a paraglider even more altitude will be lost. AIRS Safety Wrap-up