SAFA SkySailor Magazine

33 March | April 2024 SKY SAILOR #1626 – HG accident report 2/1/22, SA PIC has been flying their hang glider at Tunkalilla (SA) for approximately 30 minutes with a southerly wind, before deciding to land. Commencing from the eastern end of the ridge, PIC began a long straight approach. Unbeknownst to the pilot, the wind on the ground was from the SE, and in the downwind landing on a downward slope, a flare was not experienced, the A-frame hit the ground,, bending the right downtube and the pilot suffered a minor laceration to a knee. All pilots should be aware that the best approach to landing in the bottom paddock at this site is made from the SW direction to accommodate the slight uphill slope of the paddock and any potential SE/SSE component to the wind (due to the terrain). The site is usually flown in SSW-SSE winds and landing into a SE/SSE wind provides the best safety option, despite the fact there may be some crosswind component to the landing. Crossing Bass Strait to Tasmania… #1861 – PG at Little Green Hill, Tas A low-hours PG2 pilot launched their para- glider at Little Green Hill (Tas). After flying for 50 minutes, they lost altitude and made a turn for a final pass across the hill. PIC misjudged their altitude when turning towards the ridge. Realising they were at risk of not completing the turn, they made a right turn to avoid a large dead tree in their path. They attempted Photo: Darcy Kirkaldy