On Jul 24, 9:04*am, Andy wrote:
On Jul 24, 5:07*am, 150flivver wrote:



I disagree. *There should be an urgent, serious emergency type signal--
the wing rock, and a not-so-serious, advisory type signal such as the
rudder waggle. *If you can't keep the two separated, then perhaps you
need to take up a different hobby where you're actions don't impact on
the lives of the tow pilot or yourself. *I don't have the luxury of
getting the glider up to 1000 feet if I throw a valve at 200. It's
much more common for the glider to survive a release at 200 feet, than
a tow plane having a serious problem down there and having a good
outcome.

I'd be interested in hearing from tow pilots that had a real in flight
emergency and used the wave off signal. *It's always seemed to me to
be a bit like the "too slow" winch signal i.e. if you need to give it
then you're not in a situation to do so.

If there's time to negotiate I'll use the radio, if not I think I'll
be pulling the release.

Andy

I have had 3 real ones, all engine related. In all cases the glider
responded promptly and correctly.
I have done 2 rudder wags for spoilers out. One responded correctly
and fixed the problem. The second released.
Our club includes these signals in our Spring check.
Given all this, I will not do rudder wag until I have placed the
glider pilot in a position where misinterpretation will not be a cause
of an accident.
If I really need him off, it's wing wag and every man for himself.
UH