M A N U A L
|
U - T U R N
|
B L A C K O U T +
16 | 17
Turning
The U-Turn BLACKOUT PLUS has a high agility and reacts to steering inputs directly and
instantly. You can fly flat turns with little altitude loss by shifting your body weight. A combined
steering technique of appropriate pull on the inner brake line and shift of body weight is the
best way for a coordinated turn. The turn radius depends on the amount of pull on the brake
line. At about 75 % of brake line travel, the U-Turn BLACKOUT PLUS increases bank signifi-
cantly and performs a fast sleep turn that can be continued to a diving spiral.
ATTEnTIOn:
A rapid pull on the brake line may cause a negative spin!
Active Flying
The U-Turn BLACKOUT PLUS should be flown with light braking on both sides when there is
turbulent air. An increase in angle of attack provides better stability. When entering heavy ther-
mals or strong turbulences be careful that the canopy does not get behind you. To avoid that,
release the brakes a bit to get an increase in speed when entering the updraft. If the canopy
gets in front of you when leaving an updraft or entering a downdraft, the brakes have to be
applied to counter that. Accelerated flight however is advisable when flying through downdraft
zones. The U-Turn BLACKOUT PLUS is naturally very stable due to it’s unique way of construc-
tion. Active flying in turbulent air (as described above) significantly increases the safety. Col-
lapsing and deforming of the canopy can be avoided through active flying.
Landing
Start your landing preparation at sufficient altitude. Due to its excellent flaring characteristics
the U-Turn BLACKOUT PLUS is very easy to land, when the brake is applied in the right mo-
ment. After a straight final approach against the wind let the glider slide and get up in the har-
ness early enough. According to the wind, the brakes have to be pulled firmly and dynamically,
about one meter above the ground, beyond the stalling point OR - if there is a strong headwind
- be careful with the amount of braking. Don’t perform landings out of steep turns and big
directional changes short prior to the landing to avoid PLF.
ATTEnTIOn:
During a strong wing take off attempt, ground handling and
landing the leading edge can hit the ground with high speed. This is to be
avoided because otherwise the ribs, the sewing or the fabric can be dam-
aged!
