MAC PARA Magus, User Manual

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15
Rapid descent techniques
Many flying situations call for a very rapid descent to avoid a dangerous situation, e.g. the
escape from a cumulus cloud or approaching rain. All rapid descent methods should be
practised in calm conditions and at sufficient altitude so that a pilot is then able to employ
them effectively if extreme conditions arise.
Spiral dives and “B3 technique“ are generally the most common methods of descent for
two-liner paragliders. Spiral dives attain higher descent rates, but the g-forces can be
significant and the manoeuvre is more physically demanding. “B3
technique“ can achieve a
moderate rate of descent with the advantage of forward speed and manoeuvrability.
Always try to avoid the need to use these descent techniques. Thoroughly check the
conditions before launch, and pay close attention to how the day develops.
Spiral dives
The spiral dive is the most effective method for making a rapid descent, and can allow sink
rates of up to 20 m/s to be reached. It is suitable where there is a high ascent rate and little
wind.
The Magus fulfils the EN spiral dive requirements and has no tendency to remain in a
stable spiral dive under normal conditions. Note! The certification test flights are carried out
with a defined carabiner distance. Deviations from this defined setting, unapproved
harnesses or spirals with excessive sink can change the maneuver considerably; pilot
action may be required. In such cases, exit the spiral by weight-shifting to the outside and
progressively applying the outside brake.
Before entering a spiral, make sure you have adequate height for recovery. To initiate a
spiral, look in to the direction you want to turn, weight shift and smoothly pull down on the
inside until the glider enters the spiral. Once in the spiral you should re-centre your weight
shift and apply a little outside brake to keep the outer wing tip pressured and inflated.
Spirals with descent rates above 10 m/s are not recommended. Very high decent spiral
dives with high speeds and G-forces can be very disorientating and could lead to a loss of
vision and even black out. Always pay particular attention to your altitude. Always maintain
ground clearance of 150 - 200m. The manoeuvre must be exited at this height above
ground.
To exit the spiral, check your weight is centred (or slightly towards the outside) and
progressively release the inside brake. As the glider starts to exit the spiral, you may also
choose to reduce the pendulum moment by briefly re-applying the inside brake.
G-chute
The “G-chute” safety device is a small “Anti-G”-type drag parachute that reduces the high
G forces which may occur during the descent in a spiral dive. This enables the pilot to
achieve a higher rate of descent with fewer turns and allows safer spiral descents by
reducing G forces in a spiral dive. The G-chute is simple and easy to use and usually
connected to a carabiner on the harness. It is deployed before the spiral and pulled back
after the manoeuvre is finished and stowed away in the harness. New modern harnesses
are specially developed for competition flights and have an additional pocket and bridle
connecting for the use of the G-chute.