SAFA Skysailor Magazine

27 January | February 2021 SKY SAILOR account drift from wind or thermals. If in doubt, do not turn towards the hill. Our final tree landing, #1031, occurred at Eric Green Reserve (Newport, NSW). The pilot was completing their final flights before gaining qualification. They had conducted a flight immediately prior to this one. Pilot and instructor had discussed the importance of maintaining horizontal and vertical separation from terrain. PIC had been soaring for five minutes in 10kt when the wind dropped slightly on a southward pass. The pilot was instructed to turn away from the ridge but was slow in carrying out the instruction and glided into the canopy of a group of small coastal bushes/ trees two metres above the ground. The pilot was assisted to the ground and retrieval of the wing was carried out. No damage or injury. Again, a reminder to maintain adequate horizontal and vertical separation from terrain or vegetation to allow for any loss of altitude caused by a lack of lift or change in wind conditions. Accidental reserve deployments In #1363, a relatively new, low-hours pilot was landing after a flight at Gundowring (VIC). As they touched down, the reserve dropped onto the ground, still in its inner container. PIC had previous issues with the reserve handle pins coming free after a prior accidental near-deployment. With assistance from another experienced pilot, they have now repacked the reserve into the container and it appears to be more secure. All pilots are urged to become familiar with their equip- ment. Read manuals thoroughly and pay particular attention to the sections relating to fitting the reserve. Different manufacturers and models have differences in how these are to go into the container, how the container is closed and how the deployment handle and pins are routed and secured. The quality of description and provision of diagrams in manuals varies greatly from very good to pretty woeful. There are numerous videos available online and you may find one relevant to your harness. If in doubt, consult the dealer you bought your equipment from or an instructor. In #1055, PIC was launching their PG at Hickson Street, Merewether (Newcastle, NSW). In the process of settling into the open harness, the pilot was observed to take their hands off the controls and grasp the harness, pushing back into the seat. The reserve parachute dropped from its container and deployed. The pilot landed in the bushes in front of launch without injury. New pilots should build a check of the reserve deployment handle pins into their pre-flight check routine. With the pins loose, or not completely secured, the risk of an accidental deployment is increased. When settling back into the seat, take one hand off the brakes, passing both controls to the other hand, hook the thumb of the free hand into the webbing below the carabiner but no lower, and push back trying not to jiggle around too much. It may help to adjust the seat pan attitude so that the front is lifted slightly, as this may assist in getting settled easier. Finally, wait until clear of launch before retracting your undercarriage.