SAFA Skysailor Magazine

39 May | June 2023 SKY SAILOR #1649 – PG tumble on launch PIC attempted to launch their paraglider in strong conditions from the top of Single Hill (Tas). Once the wing was pulled up, it lifted approximately 1m vertically off the ground with no forward speed. PIC attempted to find the speed bar unsuccessfully (the bar was trapped in a leg strap), and decided to pull the brakes to kill the wing, resulting in PIC getting dragged a few metres. No damage or injury. It cannot be over-emphasised that a comprehensive pre-flight check of all equipment and connections is essential before stepping up to launch and should be repeated prior to launching. Pilots should launch from further down the hill in strong conditions, out of the compression zone and should not launch in wind strengths approaching their trim speed. #1650 – PG unintended landing PIC launched their paraglider in light con- ditions on a coastal site, Single Hill (Tas). Not finding any lift straight off launch, they turned to scratch along the hill. PIC misjudged how close they were to the hill and landed heavily while turning away from the hill. No injury or damage was sustained. Pilots should maintain situational awareness while flying and not sacrifice margin for error for a chance of lift, especially when in close proximity to terrain. #1693 – PG rock and water landing PIC was flying their paraglider at coastal site Mary Ann Bay (Tas) in gusty pre-frontal condi- tions. The wind died suddenly, and PIC turned for the landing area, however, landed short, at speed in shallow water with rocks underfoot. PIC sustained a broken foot on landing. Pilots should fly within glide of a landing area at all times. Extra caution must be exercised at coastal sites such as this with restricted landing options at the water’s edge, in combination with gusty or variable wind conditions. #1704 – PG incident PIC was flying their paraglider at Little Green Hill (Tas). After a 20-minute flight, they were losing altitude while slowly flying along the hill. PIC, getting lower, turned sharply to avoid a tree, but turned towards rather than away from the hill, and landed hard. PIC walked away with bruises and a swollen ankle. Pilots should fly with a margin for error that is suitable for their currency, skill level and state of mind. Pilots should be looking ahead along their flight path and fly with a landing option within glide. #1729 – PPG accident After a 20-minute PPG flight near Jetsonville (NE Tas), PIC noticed the air was getting lumpy and a little turbulent; not dangerous just not as en- joyable to fly in. PIC decided to come in to land, and while making the turn onto finals to land, at approximately 20m agl, PIC flew through a ‘willy willy’. The wing spun through 180º and dropped to the left-hand side and level with the PIC. Too low for a reserve deployment, PIC killed the engine, recovered the wing and piloted as best they could with the available altitude. PIC landed heavily on their feet and fell forward. PIC suffered three broken ribs, a smashed pelvis and a bruised testicle.