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Forward Take off
When ready to takeoff, the pilot must have risers (A) and the toggles in hand. The
arms must be extended to the side, as if they are extensions of risers (A). A decisive
run allows a quick and stable inflation.
After the initial inflation momentum, the pilot must keep the tension forward on
risers (A), not pulling them downwards, until the canopy is above his head. At this
point, the brakes must be carefully activated and the pilot must be prepared for
possible directional changes. A move to underneath the center of the paraglider is
the best method for corrections, provided there is room for it.
The pilot glances at last upwards to ensure the canopy is properly located above,
completely unobstructed and inflated. Only at this point, the pilot decides whether
or not to takeoff.
Reverse Take off
Thermals and Soaring
The preparation is the same as to forward take off. But this time you have to turn
towards the canopy. During the turn lift the hand which is turning away from the
glider with the risers above your head. Now you can inflate the glider with the red
(A) risers. Push the risers up and let them go when the canopy is over your head. If
necessary use the brakes gently. Turn out and begin the start run. Attention: check
to turn out to the right side. Example you turned with your left side to the glider you
have to turn out with your left side to the glider. Otherwise you will have made a 360
degree turn and all your risers are twisted.
In case of strong wind it could be necessary to make some steps towards the canopy
during inflation. This take off method can be used even with little wind.
In turbulent conditions, the paraglider must be flown with the brakes softly applied,
resuing in greater canopy stability. The pendulum effect back and forth must be
avoided! The canopy must remain on top of the pilot. For this purpose, the speed
must be increased by releasing the brakes upon entering a thermal (depending on
its intensity) or braking on exit. This is part of the basic technique on “active flying”.
During soaring, a minimum height of 50m over ground is highly recommended, for safety
reasons. Knowing and respecting flight regulations is extremely important, especially
when airspace within close proximities of mountains is shared among several pilots,
where last minute anti-collision maneuvers are not executable.
