Thread: Hero emulation
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  #53  
Old February 25th 18, 01:23 AM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
Roy B.
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Default Hero emulation

Maybe, what we should do is accept the reality that some inexperienced pilots are still going to try a high speed low pass regardless of warnings - and so we should give them some advice on how to to mitigate the risk. Especially this seems needed with respect to hazards that are not programmed into Condor if our newbie hero thinks Condor alone will prepare him/her for the event. In my experience, here are some things that mitigate (but do not eliminate) the risks: 1) Know your glider's energy exchange performance with respect to speed and altitude (how much altitude does it take to accelerate to 90% of VNE and how much altitude will be gained (usually) on the climb back)? How is it different with water ballast? Experiment first at altitude.. 2) Secure the cockpit before starting the maneuver. Stow everything that can bounce, fly around the cockpit, or foul the landing gear handle and be ready for an expedited landing after the pass. 3) Trim the glider and set the flaps for the speed you expect parallel to the ground and change nothing during the high speed portion of the maneuver (do not change hands on the stick and if you are dumping water start that on the way down while high and early) 4) straps tight and do nothing to move your body fore or aft at high speed. Shut the vent window before starting and if you forget to - ignore it., 5) Know and respect your density altitude and TAS, 6) Double check the pattern and use the radio for your intentions 7) Use smooth stick pressure through the entire maneuver, 8) No closer to the ground than 1 wingspan until you are expert at the maneuver, 9) Expect to abort the maneuver at any time and have your landing plan/pattern worked out before you start. 10) Only on a light wind day.
ROY