Familiarize yourself with your glider's center of gravity configurations and test slow-speed handling at a safe altitude if unsure. High density altitude affects performance, lengthening takeoff and landing rolls and requiring more space for turns. Prepare for weather conditions, protect yourself from sunlight, and secure all objects in the cockpit to avoid hazards.
Read MoreMike Koerner made this season's first diamond distance flight from Crystal to Holbrook, AZ, covering over 430 miles. Despite facing technical issues and unexpected companions, Mike navigated the skies with skill and perseverance. Read on for his detailed account of this remarkable journey.
Read MoreGlider pilots often release tow at arbitrary altitudes, sometimes in sink or past lift. Aim for a climb rate of 300 feet per minute above the tow plane's average. Beginners should tow higher; experienced pilots may release sooner for a challenge. Always ensure clear space before releasing.
Read MoreIn soaring, mental readiness is as crucial as physical safety. Every moment demands acute attention, from pre-flight checks to securing the aircraft. It's about engaging with every detail, adapting to uncertainty, and making informed decisions with precision. Embracing the endless learning curve ensures not just immediate success, but also lays the groundwork for future triumphs in the soaring journey ahead.
Read MoreProgressive wear (on hinges, canopy seals, brake discs and pads, tires and tip wheels, skid plates, fabric, cracks in Gelcoat, etc.) may not prohibit this flight, but if you fail to inspect them today, you’re more apt to forget next time
Read MoreA silent glider overhead lured me to a hidden airstrip, where twenty dollars bought my first, thrilling step into soaring. With Ed, a pilot as calm as a school teacher, we danced above a quilted landscape, turning me from a curious bystander into a soaring devotee.
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