Ozone Zero 3, Pilot'S Manual

Page: 12 / 31

10
or headwinds, you should fly faster than trim speed by using the accelerator system. Using up to half bar
does not degrade the glide angle or stability significantly and will improve your flying performance. You
will reach the next thermal faster and higher. At full speed the Zero 3 is stable; however we recommend
that you do not fly at full speed close to the ground or in turbulent air.
By applying the brakes approximately 30cm, the Zero 3 will achieve its Minimum-Sink rate; this is the
speed for best climb and is the speed to use for thermalling and ridge soaring.
Turning
To familiarize yourself with the Zero 3 your first turns should be gradual and progressive. To make
efficient and coordinated turns with the Zero 3 first look in the direction you want to go, then lean into it.
Your first input for directional change should be weight-shift, followed by the smooth application of the
brake until the desired bank angle is achieved. To regulate the speed and radius of the turn, coordinate
your weight shift and use the outer brake.
Active Flying
To minimize the likelihood of suffering collapses in turbulent conditions, it is essential to use active
flying. These are skills that are best learnt by playing with the glider on the ground. Flying with a small
amount of brake applied (approx. 20cm) will allow you to feel the feedback from the wing. In turbulent
conditions the internal pressure of the wing is constantly changing and only by using a small amount
of brake will you feel these changes. The aim of active flying is to maintain a constant pressure through
the brakes, If you feel a reduction or loss of pressure apply the brakes until you feel normal pressure
again. Once you have normal pressure, raise the hands quickly back to the original position. Avoid flying
with continuous amounts of deep brake in rough air as you could inadvertently stall the wing. Always
consider your airspeed.
These movements can be symmetric or asymmetric; you may have to apply both brakes or just one.
These subtle adjustments will keep the glider flying smoothly and directly above you and dramatically
reduce the chances of a collapse. If the glider pitches in front of you, use the brakes to slow it down.
Equally, if the glider drops behind you, release the brakes to allow it to speed up. The goal is to always
keep the wing directly overhead.
No pilot and no glider are immune to collapses however active flying will virtually eliminate any tendency
to collapse. When the conditions are turbulent, be more active and anticipate the movements of your
IMPORTANT
Always keep hold of
your brakes. Do not fly
in turbulent conditions
IMPORTANT
Never initiate a turn at
minimum speed (i.e.
with full brakes on) as
you could risk entering
a spin.