On Fri, 19 Jun 2009 08:20:58 -0600, "Wayne Paul"
wrote:


"Bob (not my real pseudonym)" wrote in message ...

...Snip...

That several gliders at once thing just seems like asking for
trouble... ?


Multiple glider launches are fairly rare here in the US. When it does occur it is usually only two gliders each having a different length rope. The short rope takes of first and moves off to the side before the second lifts off.

In other parts of the world multiple launches are very common due to their cost effectiveness. I remember flying a low-level route in France in 1965. We popped up over a ridge and right in front of us on the windward side of the ridge was a tow plane with three gliders. We took evasive actions, the three glider released and did likewise.

If I remember correctly three troupe gliders behind a DC-3 was the WWII norm.

More then three gliders gets very complex and I believe aren't authorized in the US. However, there are those elsewhere who try to set new glider tow records. I think the current record is nine. (See attached photo.) The launch was filmed and has been posted on YouTube.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAdIkB5rbgo

BTW, I have been enjoying the Skagit Tulip Festival Fly-in series. Just the name brings back fond memories of the years spent at NAS Whidbey Island.

Wayne
HP-14 "6F"
http://www.soaridaho.com/Schreder

Thanks for the kind words.

I've seen that nine-plane video and felt a mix of sincere admiration
for the pilots' skill and a desire to ask if I could have their
stereos...

Bob ^,,^