HGFA Skysailor Magazine

SKY SAILOR 25 March | April 2019 it was enough to keep a good pace and maintain glide with everyone. The agility and feedback is, of course, dulled compared to the high end wings, but with significantly increased stability, it was a very relaxing and enjoyable flight with the same distance rewarded. While the slightly higher performance in speed and glide of the high end wings have their advantages in competitions and strong wind conditions, flying an EN-B had no effect on the distance flown that day. While it seems common to step up as soon as a pilot is ready to handle the next wing, it is not necessary to gain that extra distance. Greater performance is gained by stepping up skills and fully mastering the glider, consistently using the full range of speedbar. Much more can be learned about thermalling, triggers, speed to glide and route planning when the glider instills confidence and the mind is clear to think. The slightly higher performance of hotter wings is only available if the glider is fully utilised and is flying at its peak efficiency. Another significant advantage of EN-B wings is the ability to safely and easily train SIV and acro. The slower movement and passive safety makes them ideal for learning basic manoeuvres and enables an enhanced understanding of wing dynamics. This greatly improves the ability to read the glider and therefore the air, which significantly improves cross-country skills. The best cross-country wing is the wing you have mastered to its peak performance, but most importantly is still fun to fly, encouraging longer airtime and further flights. Photos: Shane Tighe