Flying The Comet 3; Normal Flight; Pre-Flight Check; Launch - Axis Comet 3 Pilot's Manual

Flying the Comet
3
We recommend you practice inflating
your glider before flying it, and make
your first flights in gentle conditions on a
familiar flying site.
A. Normal flight

Pre-flight check

A proper pre-flight check is essential for
safe flying.
Before launch lay the glider out into a
slight arc and check that:
• Cell openings are free of
obstructions
• Lines are free of tangles or knots
• No twigs, grass or other objects
are tangled in the lines
• Risers are correctly connected
Axis Paragliders
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+420 601 526 674
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• Brake lines run freely through the
pulleys
• Knots on brake handles are
secure
• Carabiners on risers are closed
and/or tightened

Launch

The key to successful launching is to
practice ground-handling on flat ground
as often as possible. The Comet 3
inflates easily and steadily using forward
or reverse launch techniques. There is
no tendency to overshoot the pilot. To
forward (alpine) launch in light or nil
wind there is no need to pull the risers
hard. Allow the glider to stabilise
overhead and run positively forward
checking the canopy is fully inflated and
clear of any knots or tangles. Reverse
launching is recommended in strong
wind.

Flight

The best glide speed in calm air is
achieved in the hands-up position. The
best sink rate is produced with both
brake lines drawn down equally to about
20% of their range.

Turning

The handling characteristics of the
Comet 3 require no special or non-
standard procedures. Brake pressure is
progressive. This gives a responsive and
sporty feel to the handling.
In an emergency (e.g. a broken brake
line – main controls failure) the Comet 3
can be manoeuvred by steering carefully
with the rear risers or by weight shift.
Using the speed
system
The speed system on the Comet 3
comes supplied with Brummel hooks
ready to attach to your own speedbar of
choice. When you have done this, check
the speed system runs smoothly by
hanging in your harness before flying. In
particular check that the speed system
won't be engaged when in normal flight.
Unnecessary knots and loops in a speed
system are not recommended.
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