SAFA Skysailor Magazine

44 SKY SAILOR May | June 2023 AIRS Safety Wrap-up Pilots are reminded to be aware of the signs of incipient stall on their wings, especially in thermic conditions and even more so when in proximity to terrain. We’ll finish up in NSW… #1673 – PG turn towards ridge PIC, a low airtime PG2 pilot, launched their para- glider from Cooks Terrace (NSW), a site they had flown previously. Conditions were considered suitable for PG2 flying and remained so after the accident. They advised that they would be landing on the beach, as done previously. After completing approximately six passes, flying at a comfortable height, PIC approached the N end of the ridge, which called for a 180º turn to the right (i.e., away from the ridge). Instead, PIC was seen to make a moderately banked 270º left turn towards the ridge, which took them rapidly downwind, inland from, and eventually below the ridge-line. Now, facing approximately due E, and with no forward groundspeed, their wing was seen to collapse due to rotored air, and the pilot descended vertically, feet first, to impact the footpath about 5m directly below, and circa 200m from launch. Fractured vertebrae resulted. Pilots are reminded to always turn away from terrain, not towards it. Consult safety officers on where to expect to find sources of turbulence given the conditions and avoid these areas. Stick with the intended flight plan (communicated to the SO in this case) until you have gained sufficient experience to safely allow for a change of intentions. #1675 – Tandem PG incident at Lake St Clair PIC walked up to launch at Lake St Clair (NSW), intending to undertake a tandem PG flight. Whilst holding the endorsement, they had not flown tandem for several years. PIC launched in light conditions and remained close to the hill whilst searching for lift. PIC was aware of the existence of a powerline that runs from the summit down the slope to the base, but had lost situational awareness as to their position with respect to it. This resulted in the wing colliding with the powerlines, with both the pilot and passenger suspended just above the ground. PIC released the passenger from their harness, enabling them to drop to the ground and move away. PIC then cut their harness straps with a hook knife and dropped to the ground. A wind gust blew the wing off the wires. No injuries were sustained. Following this event, PIC requested the removal of their tandem endorsement, stating they did not intend to seek its renewal or conduct tandem flight operations again. Pilots must remain current in the mode of flight they wish to undertake. For tandem flight operations, if you lack currency, seek a Tandem Flight Review prior to resuming operations. Always maintain situational awareness of your position with respect to known hazards and safe landing locations. If the search for lift is unsuccessful, head for the safest landing option. That’s it for this time folks. Fly safe.