SAFA Skysailor Magazine

42 SKY SAILOR May | June 2022 Controlling that wing in that gust is a possibility for Chrigel, but I’m not him. And so, we turn to another batch of com- pleted reports. We’ll continue with the theme of launches gone wrong. AIRS #1524 – Blown launch in Tassie PIC set up to launch their paraglider at Gaffs Hill (TAS). Winds were approximately 12-14kt with stronger gusts, and there were already three other pilots in the air. PIC inflated their wing which veered to the left. While attempting to manage this, PIC was lifted from the ground at 45 degrees, then come back down hard, narrowly missing large rocks. They were lifted and dropped once more, then dragged with their face impacting rocks, resulting in a small cut/ abrasion to the chin. Other pilots then assisted in controlling and deflating the wing, checked the pilot and advised rest. PIC instead walked 50m further down the hill and launched unassisted. This site can be very unforgiving with large rocks in abundance waiting to cause injury. The main launch is also subject to compression, and in stronger wind conditions moving down the slope is highly recommended. Pilots are advised to practise their strong wind ground-handling skills for this situation. Ensure in these conditions that the wing is oriented correctly for the wind direction. AIRS #1516 – Failed take off at Mt Broughton The PIC walked up Mt Broughton (VIC) to fly in winter conditions suited to a PG2 (0-3kt, SW-SSW). They had a 30-minute break to rehydrate and rest. To be polite, the PIC set up to the left (east) of the more experienced pilots, who were positioned ready to launch. One of these pilots filmed the launch attempt. The film shows that the PIC initiated a strong forward launch. The right wing rose first. While running about 10m, the PIC changed direction about 30 degrees leftwards. At this point, both brakes appear to be engaged about waist height and the wing seems about overhead. The right brake was then released, while the left brake was engaged. The PIC reported that around this point, they stepped on/over a log. The wing rolled leftward and turned leftward. Some left lines caught in a large dead tree, collapsing the wing. There were no injuries or equipment damage, and the wing was retrieved by the pilots present. Launching is a high-risk event: launch from an optimal position. Don’t let politeness or other interpersonal factors interfere with decisions affecting your safety. Abort launch if the wing inflates asymmetrically. Avoid stepping on/over large objects during launch. When launching, actively pilot the wing to the desired direction: Don’t ‘follow the wing’. Maintain situational awareness: anticipate unexpected hazards. AIRS #1485 – Face plant on attempted take off PIC was attempting a paraglider forward launch in nil wind conditions at Mt Elliot (VIC). The wing came up quickly and whilst leant forward, the pilot tripped on a rock, falling forward. They set up again and launched, flying for an hour without incident. Three hours later swelling in the right wrist and increasing pain led to a visit to the Corryong AIRS Safety Wrap-up