Rapid Descent Techniques - Adventure BI SHUTTLE 2 Manual

The most suitable way of laying out a wing is in an arc, which enables
the paraglider to fill up evenly, starting from the centre.
It is essential to assure that every row of suspension lines is free of tangles and
knots and that no line goes around the wing tip. In fact, any defect in the sail
during the phase of take-off can have unpredictable effects on the trajectory.
For smooth inflation and easy take off the pilot will choose a nearly completely
pulled setting for the trims.
The direction of the take-off, from the wing centre should be into the wind
starting with taut lines and no jerk, leaning forwards for a progressive pull.
he pilot will limit the movements of his hands to simply accompanying the
rising wing with front risers applying light traction. Too strong a traction can
partly close the leading edge intakes.
In moderate winds (from 10 mph), in order to avoid a brutal take-off, it is re-
commended to ask assistance of another paragliding pilot who is able to hold
pilot and passenger on the ground during the inflation and the inspection phase
before starting the take-off run.
Pilots and passengers not used to back to wind techniques should not take off
in winds of more than 15 mph.
In a 360° spiral, a sink rate of 8 - 9 m/s / 25- 30 ftls is attained. This ma-
noevre can disorientate the pilot (loss of reference point and strong accele-
ration). One should learn this technique progressively. In particular one should
avoid the symmetrical mid braking position for coming out of the spiral. This is
best obtained by raising both hands progressively.
The "B"-line stall is nearly physically impossible as soon as the total load ex-
ceeds 150% of the pilot weigh t. If not this configuration is possible by pulling
slowly the B Branch of the risers. After a slight swinging, this will produce a
vertical descent rate of about 8 m/s. There is a risk of entering a front horse
shoe configuration. To get out of it the pilot will slowly release the B branch and
pull symetricalIy and briefly the brakes. The return to flight will cause a
moderate surge which should be controlled on the brakes. Avoid a sudden
release of the B risers.
A system is provided for makinq big ears by pulling on the second branch of the
A raisors. Pulling on this system must be done progressively to avoid too big a
closure. Once the big ears are in, the pilot can increase progressively their size
by pulling more and more length on the system. One should make sure that the
central half of the wing is kept open. To re-open big ears The pilot will pull
symetrically and briefly on the brakes.
INFLATION AND TAKE-OFF

RAPID DESCENT TECHNIQUES

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