SCSA News, Weather, and Training

Archive for the ‘Soaring Is Learning’ Category

    Although it is your responsibility to inform the tow pilot where you want to go, it’s sometimes wise to ask for suggestions.   A tow pilot or line person who has just participated in numerous launches may have better ideas of where ‘the perfect spot’ is.   If you do solicit advice, however, understand that conditions can change rapidly, and there are no guarantees.   Either way, communication beforehand can prevent a great deal of needless frustration – and post-flight communication also can be very beneficial.

Communication with the tow pilot, and with other pilots who have recently been aloft, should be part of pre-flight preparation.   Any advice, even from inexperienced students or bystanders, is potentially valuable.   Consider the source, but also consider the information.   If you have any special needs in regard to launching your sailplane (for example, a longer-than-usual run before gaining full control), inform the wing runner beforehand.   Brief those who are trying to help you, or credit yourself for any ensuing difficulties.

     Comfort is essential to safety, but deal with seat cushions, clothing, hat, sunglasses, sun block, food, water and urination before takeoff.   This should include everyone on board.   If it’s cold or you intend to soar high where it’s always cold, be careful to not work up a sweat pushing the sailplane into launch position.    Especially troublesome are damp socks, whether from snow, dew, or persperation, which can amount  to packing your toes in ice once you’re high and far from relief.   This one seemingly minor factor can spoil the fun, or even impair pilot judgement.

Getting current is no place to skimp on expense, and three flights in ninety days do not guarantee safe operation.   At the very least, true currency should mean reaching full proficiency in takeoff and landing.   Think of extra hops also to accustom yourself to crosswinds or an aircraft new to you as wise investments.   Take two, their small…