Griffin manual: 24
On a winch launch, the glider should if possible be steered only by weight-shifting. Brisk,
forceful steering input with the brakes can be used to help correct direction, without
braking the glider too much and stalling it.
You are responsible for ensuring that your towing operations are safe and in
accordance with any applicable tow regulations. Make sure you have appropriate tow
training and use a suitable harness attachment and release mechanism. Always use an
approved tow system and qualified tow operator.
TIP: Make sure your wing is overhead at the start of your tow. Be careful not to over-
control the wing as it reacts differently to control inputs when on tow.
Towing requires special training and special regulations must be observed. These are:
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The pilot must have completed the appropriate training and hold a licence.
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The winch and release must have a certificate of compliance which covers the
towing of paragliders.
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The winch operator must have undertaken training which includes the towing of
paragliders.
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The Griffin may not be towed with a towline tension of more than 90 daN.
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The paraglider must not under any circumstances be towed by motor vehicle or
motor boat etc if you do not have the appropriate towing equipment and a
suitable winch operator.
WARNING: The most common cause of stall on winch is releasing the A-risers too early
while the glider is rising. The pilot should ensure that the canopy is above him before
the “start” command is given.
Any changes to direction using the brakes should not be carried out until the canopy is
already above the pilot, as too much brake can cause the glider to fall down again or be
towed in a non-flyable condition.
Attaching the towline release system
The optimal attachment point for the towline release should be as close as possible to
the system’s centre of gravity. On a paraglider the ideal attachment point is level with the
harness attachment point or directly on the risers. It is not essential to use a suitable tow
adaptor, but it is recommended and provides the pilot with greater safety during the
towing phase.
WARNING: If you are using a front-mounted reserve system, it is important to ensure
before first launch that it can be deployed without any obstruction. If this is not the
case, then only a webbing release system should be used.
WARNING: If a webbing release system is used, there is an increased risk of lockout.
This means that the glider does not fly towards the winch and control pressure by the
pilot is not sufficient to correct this. You should therefore check regularly the position
