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Flight at a slope site
Flights at a slope site are a particularly attractive type of model glider flying. Flying for
hours in the slope winds without external launching assistance is one of the most
enjoyable experiences. The highlight is the thermal flying from a slope. To launch the
model, fly out over the valley, seek thermal, find thermal, circle high up to the visibilty
limit, then bring down the model by acrobatics only to start the game over again is
model flying in perfection.
But beware, as slope flying can also harbour dangers for the model. Firstly, the
landing is in most cases considerably more difficult than on a flat-field site. Often the
landing must take place in the lee of a mountain, which requires concentration and a
spirited approach with crossing and subsequent air brake landing. A windward
landing, that is in the immediate upwind, is even more difficult; it should always be
carried out uphill, with crossing and timely catch shortly before landing.
Another danger is the lack of upwind or thermal at the most inconvenient moment,
which harbours the risk of a difficult landing in the valley. This risk can, however, be
reduced by obtaining information about a potentially necessary landing site in the
valley before the start of the flight and by personally inspecting this site in advance in
order to get to know any obstacles for the approach and local wind conditions. If the
landing cannot be avoided the landing should be carried out as in the flat field with a
landing approach and a short, straight end approach with air brake support. Always
fly the model in the visibility axis above the intended landing site. By doing so you will
avoid a too short landing and arrive safely at the landing site. If the sun shines you
can estimate the height from the early visible shadow of the model. With this
assistance even spot landings are possible in the valley.
Never give up!
Thermals can be found even at the lowest altitudes. Once the end approach has
been begun the landing should take place under any circumstance, as in this case
the altitude is really too low for thermals. Calmly memorise the landing site and how
to get there, maybe there are distinctive features in the terrain which you can aim for
in your later search.
The main thing about thermal search under launch height is, however, to "keep
calm". Realise that in most cases the pilot is the problem, not the model. Also reduce
any "helper" to silence who stands next to you and continuously and obtrusively
offers "good advice". A pilot who really wants to help you gives only very short and
really helpful hints, e.g. about other models whose pilots have found thermal, a
circling bird of prey or the safe approach to the intended landing site. Perhaps he
even launches his model, flies it down to the valley and helps with the thermal
search. The chances of success increase considerably if two models are being flown.
