AirDesign UFO 2, Manual

Page: 47 / 163

46
6. Towing / winching
The UFO 2 is suitable for towing/winching. The use of a suitable tow-adapter is not obligatory
but is helpful and gives more confidence during towing.
Hint!
Towing is only recommended if:
•
The pilot has received towing instruction
•
The winch and release-links are suitable for towing paragliders
•
The winch operator is experienced and qualified for towing paragliders
Attention: Danger of accident!
The most common reason for accidents during towing is when the pilot releases the A-riser too
early during take-off. The pilot should make sure that the glider is completely overhead when
giving the command for start.
7. Practical Flying
This manual is not an instruction manual for learning how to fly. Following points are just
additional information.
a. Pre-flight check
A careful pre-flight check is recommended before every flight.
The lines, risers, maillons and canopy should be checked for damage. Do not take off if there is
the smallest amount of visible damage.
Ensure that the main Karabiners between harness and risers are undamaged and are closed.
The harness must be put on with greatest care and all straps secured correctly.
Check the correct position of the reserve (rescue) handle and make sure the pins of the reserve
(rescue) are in place.
The lines and risers should be sorted carefully. Check that the risers are not twisted and that
the brake lines are running free. All lines must run from riser to canopy free from tangles or
knots
– during flight it is often not possible to release knots in lines.
Lines lay directly in contact with the ground. There fore, take care that they don’t get caught or
snagged during take-off.
No lines should be underneath the canopy, line-overs can cause accidents.
The canopy should be laid out in a circular shape facing the wind so that all lines become
tensioned evenly when inflating.
ATTENTION: NEVER TAKE OFF (START) WITH OPEN KARABINAS!
b. Check-list – pre-flight-check
Lay the glider out into a slight arc and check that:
•
Canopy is dry and undamaged
•
Cell openings are free of obstructions
•
Risers are without damage and all stitching is intact
•
Maillons on lines are closed correctly