Standard Flight Regime; Launch; Flight - Gradient BRIGHT4 User Manual

Pilot's manual Bright4 November 2010
5.1 Standard flight
5.1.1 Pre-flight check
A thorough pre-flight check is essential for safe flying and that's why you should
pay special attention to it. Above all, you should check that the canopy, lines and
risers are free from damage and tangles. Also don't forget to check your harness
and your reserve parachute. Before launch spread the canopy out in a slight arc
and check that:
• All cell openings are free
• No lines are looped around or under the canopy
• No lines are tangled or have a knot in them
• Any twigs, grass or other objects are not tangled in the lines or the canopy
• Risers are not twisted
• Control lines run freely through the pulleys
• Knots on control handles are secure
• Karabiners on risers are tightened

5.1.2 Launch

Launching the Bright4 is straightforward, either by forward (Alpine) or reverse
launch. A dynamic pull on the front risers (A, coloured red) will bring the canopy
simply and easily above the pilot's head. The canopy inflates from the centre
equally and smoothly. The Bright4 has no tendency to outrun the pilot and quickly
stabilises above the pilot. Once there, visually check the canopy and the lines
before take off. Take off can be made easier by a light pull on the brakes.

5.1.3 Flight

The Bright4 is trimmed to fly at best glide when the brakes are fully up. Best sink
rate is achieved when both brake lines are drawn down evenly to about 20-25% of
their range.
Turbulent conditions
When flying through severe turbulence stabilise the canopy by simultaneously
applying a little brake to both sides. Flying with a little brake applied will also help
to prevent deflations and give you more feedback about what the air is doing and
how the glider is reacting. Responding correctly to the paraglider's movement by
means of the brakes and weight shift is known as "active flying". A pilot
demonstrating good active-flying skills will significantly reduce both the number
and severity of collapses he or she experiences.
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