SAFA Skysailor Magazine

37 September | October 2023 SKY SAILOR #1395 – PPG collision during launch, SA/NT PIC was launching their powered paraglider at Aldinga Beach (SA). They inflated the wing in soft sand in a forward launch into wind, ap- proximately 30m from their vehicle, which was off to their left. With the wing stable overhead, they leaned forward and applied power. However, the thrust pushed them forward towards the ground and they stepped to the left. The pilot proceeded to add power but misjudged the distance to the car. PIC realised their error and reduced power but collided with the car. The pilot then spun 180-degrees and fell backwards onto the sands. Damage to the cage, propeller and stand resulted, without injury. Be prepared to abort any launch or take off if things go awry. #1439 – Stanwell East launch PG incident, NSW PIC (PG2) arrived at Bald Hill, Stanwell Park (NSW), to fly their paraglider. The wind was light and from E/ENE. PIC was advised to move to the East launch as the Point was not suited to the conditions. On arrival at the East launch, PIC received a detailed briefing from a CFI in attendance, and a flight plan was agreed for a sleddie straight to the LZ. PIC inflated the wing, stabilised beneath it and proceeded to launch. Upon leaving the launch area, their wing was swung to the left. PIC has lost control and impacted terrain. They grasped vegetation and secured themselves close to the cliff edge. No damage or injury resulted. Pilots must be prepared for a change in wind direction when emerging from wind shadow caused by a line of trees as exists on the north side of the East launch at Bald Hill. Be prepared to pilot actively and escape the changed wind direction or rotor. #1447 – PG tree landing, Vic PIC was launching their paraglider from Mt Elliot launch at Corryong (Vic). Conditions were light and thermic. In a reverse launch, the wing rose normally, but then veered to the right. During the take-off run, the glider failed to fully pressurise and the pilot continued past their nominated take-off decision point. The glider did not become fully airborne with the pilot and glider striking and coming to rest in the trees below launch. The pilot was able to exit the harness whilst touching the ground. The glider was recovered from the tree without damage or injury. Be prepared to abort a launch where the wing does not feel fully pressurised. #1448 – Downwind PG landing at Flowerdale, with injury, Vic PIC has launched their paraglider at Flowerdale (Vic) after winds that had been gusting all day abated for 30 minutes. The wind at the time of launch was in the vicinity of NE at 8kt. After launch, only sink was encountered. PIC doubted they would be able to make the LZ, so decided to land at the base of the hill. They found themselves hemmed in by a powerline and the base of the hill, so elected to make a downwind landing. PIC came in at approximately 40km/h on a slightly uphill section of the paddock, landed on their feet, Photos: Courtesy Roger Turner