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BEWARE! If you are using a front-mounted reserve system it is very important to verify
the unhindered deployment before every flight. In case of doubt please only tow using a
textile release system.
Flight safety
The development of high performance paragliders from square parachutes has meant vast
improvements in speed, sink rate and handling. But, at the same time, it has also led to a
requirement on behalf of the pilot for accurate, sensitive control and an acute anticipation of
possible flying conditions. Any glider, whether beginner or competition class, may collapse in
turbulent conditions and you must be able to react accordingly.
Today you have a wide choice between different gliders in the UP range. The main difference
between the gliders is in the stability that each class offers. Beginner wings react to turbulence
less dramatically and are more forgiving when compared to top performance gliders, which have
more sensitive, but less forgiving handling. Making the correct decision when choosing a new
glider is most important; you should critically examine your flying and your level of knowledge.
A safe and efficient way to get used to your new paraglider is by practising your ground handling
skills. We suggest finding a suitable area, like a playing field, and with light to medium wind it is
quite easy to practice inflating the glider and feel the reaction to brake input, b-line stall, collapses
etc.
Before takeoff and whilst flying it is very important to anticipate any likely turbulence and fly
accordingly. Look well ahead, and as well as looking for areas of likely lift, try and predict, and
avoid, areas of sink and rough air. If you do find yourself in turbulence then look for the cause,
and adjust your flight plan to avoid other similar places.
Thermals and Turbulence
In turbulent air, the UP Meru should be flown with a little brake to increase the angle of attack and
provide greater stability. While flying in strong or broken thermals, it is important that you
concentrate on keeping the wing centrally above your head. Do this by allowing the glider to fly
faster while entering a thermal, and by dampening the surge of the canopy while exiting the
thermal by braking gently.
Flying fast is useful for getting through sink or when flying into a headwind. The UP Meru
possesses a high inherent stability due to its construction and design, however an active flying
style in turbulence will help increase safety by preventing unnecessary collapses and deformation
of the canopy.
Getting down fast
All rapid descent manoeuvres should be practised initially in smooth conditions with plenty of
altitude before you need to use them 'for real'. It is important to distinguish between the three
techniques, and to know the merits of each.
WARNING! All other manoeuvres, such as full stalls and spins, should be avoided as fast
descent techniques. They are not very efficient, and incorrect recovery can have
dangerous consequences (as with any paraglider)!
Steep Spiral Dive
A maximum sink rate of over 15 meters per second can be achieved in a steep spiral dive, but it is
advisable to build up gradually to these sink rates when you first practise spiralling.
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