SAFA Skysailor Magazine

41 May | June 2024 SKY SAILOR 8 in 10 pilots say the best way to learn new things is from other pilots, and your stories of narrow escapes can serve as valuable lessons. • We’re looking for first-hand accounts of weather-related close calls • You may be eligible for a free gift just for submitting your story • Get $500 if we publish your close call • You can remain anonymous. 2402.4847 Scan the QR code to submit your story One life-changing story. Countless lifesaving lessons. Pilots should consider their decision to launch carefully in strong conditions, and use an appropriate launch technique, e.g., ‘Cobra’ inflation. #1632 – Kilcunda PG tree landing, Vic PIC was flying their paraglider under super- vision at Kilcunda (Vic). A short time after launch, the wind picked up in strength and PIC became stuck in a venturi near a knoll, and was blown backwards. They applied full speedbar, which has arrested their backwards movement for a minute, but then continued backwards, landing in low vegetation behind the dune. All pilots need to consider carefully whether to fly if the indications are that the wind strength will increase. If deciding to fly, have a clear strategy in mind to make a landing. In smooth air, big ears with speedbar is possible, but smooth removal of these is required, speedbar first, followed by big ears.