Pre-launch Checklists.

Nyal Williams wrote:
I'd like to see posted various generalized, and glider-non-specific
pre-lauch checklists with the letters followed by explanation of what it
means.

I'm not a friend of large mnemonics, I've rather structured my checklist
by logic content. This gives me a reliable generic check list which is
valid for all gliders.

1) Glider preparation. (Rigging checks done, tail dolly, ballast etc.)

2) Strap myself. (This item also serves as a structure elment: group 1
cmopleted. In two seaters, passenger strapped and rear canopy locked
goes here.)

3) Instrument panel. (Just go around the panel and point to each
instrument. Radio check comes here, too.)

4) Mechanics. (Controls free, spoilers locked, flaps set, trim set.)

5) Canopy shut (Again, this serves a structure element: all checks done.)

6) Pre launch concentration phase. (Where is the go-no-go-decision
point; what to do if the cable breaks low, middle, high; what is the
safety altitude, what are the speeds to fly... Depends on glider, place,
wind etc.)

7) Get the cale hooked up. (Another structure element. No way I let
somebody hook up the cable before this point, regardless on how much
pressure they apply.)

8) Windsock, no people in the way, give ok sign.

This works for all situations and all gliders, I don't have to memorize
a long list and the risk of forgetting something is minimal.

Stefan