Hangies.co.uk

I have just started HG again after a long break. I am pilot rated and very current PG, but am CP HG and have not flown my HG much. It is an Aeros Target, I flew it once at Merthyr, did my tow conversion, which was ten flights off the line, and had a soaring flight which turned into a bottom landing when the wind dropped. I have a mosquito which I have not flown yet. How much experience should I have free flying before I use the power option. Oh I have done some paramotoring too!

I think it's good to have a real 'feel' for the glider and how it behaves as during take-off if one wing pops up slightly or your angle of attack isn't doing what it should then the adjustment should be automatic. I guess in this way it's no different to a hill launch or tow launch but there is just a bit more going on with power. Having said that I don't think you need to be uber experienced, just competant and confident you know how your wing flies. Once in the air it's a breeze to fly as you have so much time. Landing is not too tricky either but I had to get used to making my finals on the base bar as I normally do this on the uprights. Also I noticed that due to increased weight my glide was further so also something to bear in mind. I'm a stickler for doing things by the book so my ultimate suggestion would be to get signed off by an instructor as this is the only way your BHPA insurance will cover you and also the instructor will be able to talk you through al the finer details of which there are far too many to mention here, any of which could be super important. Anyway, hope this helps. I really like my Mozzie and only have to put in a couple more nil wind landings on it to be signed off but it's a very fun toy so you've got some fun coming up :)

Thanks for that Luke, with the way the weather is going it doesn't seem as if I will be getting more up to date in the near future!! I would love to go the instructor route but sadly cash decrees that I have to forego that option. Not too worried at the moment, I do have access to a really experienced pilot who can Mentor me if I feel I need it but I will probably have a go on my own when conditions are good. If the money becomes available I may do the course, we shall have to see. Regards, Norris.

I still have not flown the Mosquito but I have done more free flying, so next time the weather is suitable I am going out with the power unit. I was recently doing some work on the Target when I noticed a single strand of wire sticking out of one of the side wires. I decided to change the wires, and since I don't know the history of the glider I changed all the bottom wires. Cost £70, which is well worth it to me just for the peace of mind it will give me, but I also found out that at some time the glider has been mis rigged! Only a couple of things, and neither of which would have affected flight or safety, but I am glad that they are sorted now. All we need now is the weather to improve!!! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!!!