SAFA Skysailor Magazine

38 SKY SAILOR November | December 2023 #1853 – PG tree landing, Qld/S PIC (PG4) was flying Mt Widgee (HG-Adv/PG5, Qld/S), in company. Conditions were very light. Whilst travelling from east to west towards the launch spur, they made a right turn towards the hill to avoid another pilot. PIC hit sink, and their harness scraped the treetops, causing the wing to deflate. PIC landed on the spur without damage or injury. Always have a margin for error to make the LZ and a safe landing. If flying in nil lift conditions, keep the route to the LZ open. #1849 – Hard pendulum PG landing, Pops, Qld/N PIC was flying their PG at Pops near Coolbie (Qld/N). They launched into a thermal bubble, but immediately after encountered sink. PIC continued scratching, looking for lift, but instead only encountered sink. They realised that they would not make the LZ and decided to land in a sparse orchard. As PIC made their final turn, they encountered more sink and entered a pendulum motion immediately prior to landing. PIC was beneath the wing upon touchdown, but still swinging forward with considerable momentum. PIC flared hard, but impacted the ground at speed on feet, but falling forward immediately, followed by the wing overshooting. No damage or injury. If encountering sink, ensure there is enough margin to reach the LZ. If in doubt head immediately to the LZ. That’s it for this issue. Take care in the evolv- ing spring conditions, especially if you have hibernated for winter and are now emerging to take to the skies. Fly safe. AIRS Safety Wrap-up winded, they were able to get up and walk to their car. On closer inspection at hospital, a scan revealed eight fractured rear ribs, three fractured front ribs and a small fracture of a transverse process in the lower back. If set-up for a top landing is not ideal, take the safer route and head to the established LZ. Beware of long grass, particularly in downwind landings, as an impact at speed with hidden obstacles has the potential to end badly. We’ll finish up for this issue over the border in Queensland. Candidasa, Bali Photo: Maury Ellis