Vers.1.0 S. 16 / 30
C-Stall
This manoeuvre can be found sporadically in some paragliding literature. We
don’t recommend it, because entering and exiting the C-stall can be very
demanding and dangerous for many pilots.
Collapses
Asymmetric collapse
If you fly in strong turbulences, one side of the glider might collapse. This
happens if one side of the wing doesn’t produce lift anymore, due to a low
angle of attack. If there is no lift, the lines get loose and the wing deforms or
collapses.
Most of these collapses are rather small – they only affect a small part of the
wingspan. In such a case, the ION LIGHT continues to fly almost unaffected. If
the collapse affects 50% of the wingspan or more, the wing will react
considerably:
Due to the increased drag of the collapsed wing, the glider will turn to the
collapsed side. Furthermore, the glider will pitch down because of the increased
wing loading. (The glider has to increase its speed because of the reduced area
– that’s what causes the pitching down.)
The pilot can prevent the glider from pitching and turning, by applying the
brake on the non collapsed side of the wing. If a collapse occurs close to the
ground it is essential to react properly. The proper reaction should be taught at
high altitude, ideally under professional guidance.
As explained above, most of the collapses can be prevented, if you fly actively!
Front tuck
A front tuck occurs, if the angle of attack gets too low on the whole wingspan,
then the whole leading edge will collapse. After the asymmetric tuck, the ION
LIGHT will go back to normal flight automatically. The pilot can expedite the
opening process by slightly applying both brakes.
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