Asymmetric collapse
Deflations
Although the OPERA has great stability of the flight, strong
turbulence or piloting error may cause a portion of the wing
suddenly to be a deflation. The OPERA is a CCC glider so, it is
essential to do active flying in case of an asymmetric or
frontal collapse. Active flying will reduce the loss of altitude
and a change of direction
Symmetric collapse usually occurs when the pilot has not
predicted a possible response of the glider.
When it has been happened, the OPERA will be recovered by
itself immediately and the OPERA will gain the speed again.
To avoid this situation, it needs the active flying skills.
Pull the both brakes when you may feel the less pressure and
the collapse occurred. And the then release the brake right
after to make the normal condition.
Asymmetric collapse usually happens when the pilot has not
foreseen this possible reaction of the wing.
To prevent the collapse from happening, pull the brake line
corresponding to the compromised side of the wing, this will
increase the angle of attack. If the collapse does happen, the
OPERA will not react violently, the turn tendency is very
gradual and it is easily controlled. Lean your body towards
the side that is still flying in order to counteract the turn and
to maintain a straight course, if necessary slightly slow down
the same side. During keep the course, do not use the over-
braking on your pend side.
The collapse will normally open by itself but if that does not
happen, you need to pull the brake lines at the collapsed
side strongly and release it. You need to repeat this pumping
action several times.
Symmetric collapse
Full stall can occur when you fully pull the both brakes
enough long time. This means that the wing loses its forward
momentum. Also weather conditions can cause a full stall.
This is a serious deviation from normal flight and can be
difficult to manage. If a stall occurs at less than 100 m above
the ground, throw your reserve parachute.
To recover to the normal flight you must release both brakes.
After this usually comes a front dive with a possible front
deflation. An asymmetric recovery (one control released faster
than the other) from a full-stall can cause a big dynamic
collapse. The full-stall is a hazardous maneuver and as such
outside the scope of this manual. You should practice and
learn this maneuver only on a SIV course under professional
instructor.
Full stall
