Paraglider maintain their wing profile as a consequence of a „ram-air“
pressurisation of air let in through opening at or near the leading edge of the wing.
Stability is facilitated by the location of the pilot, hanging well below the wing.
The use of the controls (brakes) causes the wing to be more or less braked (slowed). Symmetrical braking causing the
paraglider to slow and asymmetrical braking causes the paraglider to turn.
2.
FLYING THE FIDES
2.1
BEFORE TAKE-OFF
Get in the habit of inspecting your paraglider carefully each time you lay it out to launch (and each time you pack it up after flying).
Inspections should include - but are not limited to:
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The wing for rips or tears, loose threads and any form of damage or weakening.
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The lines for cuts, frays, and any other apparent damage.
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Quick-links to ensure they are securely closed.
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Riser straps for loose threads, tears and any signs of damage or wear.
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Caribiners for any damage.
2.2
PRE-LAUNCH
Select an area of the launch that allows room to fully inflate the glider, AND, if necessary, to abort your launch after a full inflation. You will be running into the prevailing wind direction.
Lay out your glider perpendicular to the direction of the wind, on its back, with the cell openings facing away from the wind. Pull the wing tips into a slight „arc“ or horseshoe.
This will help the glider inflates evenly and in a more controlled manner by ensuring that the centre of the glider inflates first. After you have laid out your glider and done a pre-flight inspection, double-check your safety equipment.
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Is your helmet on and strap done up?
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Ensure that ALL harness straps are properly closed and secured (double-check your leg straps).
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Are the lines free and untangled?
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Before launching, establish in you mind your flight path after launch, and the location of the nearest landing zone.
2.3
LAUNCHING
For a forward (or „alpine“) launch, face forward grasping the A-risers in each hand with the other risers arrayed along your
forearms (BOTH A-risers on wings equipped with split A-risers). Ensure that you are centred in the
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