C-Stall; Collapses; Asymmetric Collapse; Front Tuck - Nova IBEX 2 Manual

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C-Stall

This manoeuvre can be found sporadically in some paragliding literature. We

don't recommend it, because entering and exiting the C-stall can be very

demanding and dangerous for many pilots.

If you fly in strong turbulences, one side of the glider might collapse. This

happens if one side of the wing doesn't produce lift anymore, due to a low

angle of attack. If there is no lift, the lines get loose and the wing deforms or

collapses.

Most of these collapses are rather small – they only affect a small part of the

wingspan. In such a case, the IBEX 2 continues to fly almost unaffected. If the

collapse affects 50% of the wingspan or more, the wing will react considerably:

Due to the increased drag of the collapsed wing, the glider will turn to the

collapsed side. Furthermore, the glider will pitch down because of the increased

wing loading. (The glider has to increase its speed because of the reduced area

– that's what causes the pitching down.)

The pilot can prevent the glider from pitching and turning, by applying the

brake on the non collapsed side of the wing. If a collapse occurs close to the

ground it is essential to react properly. The proper reaction should be taught at

high altitude, ideally under professional guidance.

As explained above, most of the collapses can be prevented, if you fly actively!

A front tuck occurs, if the angle of attack gets too low on the whole wingspan,

then the whole leading edge will collapse. After the asymmetric tuck, the IBEX

2 will go back to normal flight automatically. The pilot can expedite the

opening process by slightly applying both brakes.

Vers.1.0

S. 16 / 31

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