Jonker Sailplanes JS-MD 3 - Aerotow Launch Procedure

JS-MD 3
Aircraft Flight Manual
MD10-AFM-00-001
Issue: 01
Rev. 00
Rev. Date: 14-Feb-20
Page 4-17
Aerotow launch procedure
Aerotows are performed using the nose release hook. Refer to
Section 2.12 for rope lengths.
Initiate the ground run in negative flap (Flap setting 1). This will increase
aileron efficiency at low speeds. In a crosswind take-off, keep the stick
aft during the initial acceleration. This prevents the aircraft from weather-
cocking into wind.
As soon as positive aileron control is available, set the flap to the setting
indicated in Table 4.5-3.
Aerotow speed table
Flap setting
Airspeed
km/h / (kts)
Recommended aerotow speed
(No water ballast)
4
130 km/h
(70 kts)
Recommended aerotow speed
(MTOM)
4
140 km/h
(76 kts)
Minimum safe aerotow speed
(No water ballast, calm conditions)
4
115 km/h
(62 kts)
Minimum safe aerotow speed
(MTOM, calm conditions)
4-5
125 km/h
(67 kts)
Minimum safe aerotow speed
(MTOM, turbulent conditions)
3-4
140 km/h
(76 kts)
Maximum aerotow speed (V
T
)
3
180 km/h
(97 kts)
Table 4.5-3 Aerotow speed table
Retracting the landing gear on aerotow is not recommended.
To release, pull the yellow release handle all the way. If the low tow
position is used, it is recommended to release only after moving into the