15
Learn and practice the techniques in this section under qualified supervision. Big
ears and spiral dives are generally the most common methods of descent. Big ears
can achieve a moderate rate of descent with the advantage of forward speed and
manoeuvrability. Spiral dives attain higher rates of descent, but the G-forces can
be significant and the manoeuvre is more technically demanding. ‘B-stalls’ have
little or no advantages compared to the other methods of descent and therefore
are not recommended in normal situations
.
BIG EARS
To enter big ears, pull the outermost A-lines down firmly on each side of the wing
one-by-one until the wingtips fold under. The glider can then be steered by shifting
weight. Do not use the brakes unless you intend to exit big ears. Once in big ears,
you can increase your sink rate and forward speed by applying the speed bar.
Always apply the speed bar AFTER entering big ears, never before.
To exit big ears, release both A-lines at the same time. Apply brake progressively
one side at a time to help re-inflation. Be careful not to brake too strong on both
sides at the same time as this could cause a stall.
WARNING:
The ‘big ears’ manoeuvre stresses the supporting lines even more.
Thus you should never fly extreme manoeuver with big ears. Avoid this
manoeuver during low temperature. Always be aware of a full Stall.
SPIRAL DIVE
Before entering a spiral, make sure you have adequate height for recovery. To
enter the spiral dive, shift weight and progressively apply the inside brake until
the glider enters the spiral. As the glider accelerates into the spiral, centre your
weight and control your rate of descend by shifting weight and using the outer
brake. To exit the spiral, check whether your weight is centred (or slightly towards
the outside) and release the inside brake bit by bit. As the glider starts to exit the
spiral, you may also choose to reduce the pendulum moment by briefly re-applying
the inside brake. The APAX has no tendency to remain in a stable spiral dive under
normal conditions. However, in certain cases, such as spirals with excessive sink
rates or wrong harness settings, pilot action may be required. In such cases, exit
the spiral by shifting weight to the outside and progressively applying the outside
brake.
It is advisable to fly only soft spirals no faster than 14m/s descending speed.
B-STALL
Although it is not recommended for normal situations, the B-stall does not present
particular difficulties. It can be done at average rising and weak wind.
To enter a B-stall, symmetrically pull down the B-risers. This action may require
considerable effort. To exit the manoeuvre, release the B-risers smoothly and
symmetrically. Be sure to allow the glider to resume normal flight before making
any other actions.
