6
approximately four inches above the waist. This speed should not be exceeded in anything
other than smooth air. No abrupt maneuvering or control inputs should be made at anything
above this speed.
The stability, controllability, and structural strength of a properly maintained RamAir have
been determined to be adequate for safe operation when the glider is operated within all of
the manufacturer specified limitations. No warranty of adequate stability, controllability, or
structural strength is made or implied for operation outside of these limitations.
The stall speed of the RamAir at maximum recommended wing loading is 25 mph or less.
The top (steady state) speed at minimum recommended wing loading for a prone pilot with a
properly designed and adjusted harness is at least 46 mph. All speeds given above are
indicated airspeeds, for a properly calibrated airspeed indicator mounted in the vicinity of the
pilot. Wills Wing provides such an airspeed indicator with the glider. It is strongly recom-
mended that the pilot fly with such an airspeed indicator. Refer to the section on using the
airspeed indicator for further information on speeds to fly.
The recommended hook in pilot weight range for the RamAir is:
RamAir 154: 160 - 270 lbs.
RamAir 146: 145 - 260 lbs.
Be advised that pilots with hook in weights of less than 20 lbs above minimum will find the
RamAir significantly more demanding of pilot skill to fly, and that pilots hooking in within 20
lbs of the maximum will experience some relative degradation of optimum sink rate perfor-
mance due to their higher wing loading.
A minimum USHGA Advanced (IV) level of pilot proficiency is required to fly the RamAir
safely. Pilots are advised that the optimum proficiency level for the RamAir is higher than the
minimum recommended. Operation of the glider by unqualified or under qualified pilots may
be dangerous.
Operating the RamAir outside of the above limitations may result in injury and death. Flying
the RamAir in the presence of strong or gusty winds, or turbulence may result in loss of
control of the glider which may lead to injury and death. Do not fly in such conditions unless
you realize and wish to personally assume the associated risks. Wills Wing is well aware
that pilots have, and continue to perform maneuvers and fly in conditions which are outside
the recommended operating limitations stated herein. Please be aware that the fact that
some pilots have exceeded these limitations in the past without dangerous incident does not
imply or insure that the limitations may be exceeded without risk. We know for a fact that
gliders which meet all current industry standards for airworthiness can and do suffer in flight
structural failures, both as a result of turbulence, and as a result of various maneuvers
outside the placarded operating limitations, including, but not necessarily limited to aerobat-
ics. We do not know, and cannot know, the full range of maneuvers or conditions which may
cause the pilot’s safety to be compromised, nor can we test the glider in all possible circum-
stances.
