Safe Operating Practices

Flight Training involves learning new skills and procedures that are designed to enhance your safety and enjoyment of this new activity.  These procedures are the result of years of experience and are accepted as “best practices” throughout the industry.  Use them every time you fly.

1.      Never hook up an empty glider to the tow plane.

2.      Never hook up a glider that does not have a qualified pilot at the controls.

3.      Never hook up a glider until the pilot gives permission.

4.      Beware of the rope.  Do not stand on the rope or ever allow the rope to become wrapped around you in any way.

5.      Beware of the runway.  Sailplanes and airplanes may arrive rather quietly.  Stay clear of the runway and don’t turn you back to the runway.  Watch the pattern and be ready for the unexpected arrival on the grass.  Be aware that both gliders and airplanes may leave the side of the runway unexpectedly.

6.      As a pilot you must not allow the ground crew to hook you up until you are ready.  Ready means that the “Before Takeoff Checklist” is complete.

7.      Do not crowd the launch area with excess crew or bystanders.  Only 2 ground crew members should be involved with assisting the pilot and hooking up the rope.

8.      Before the glider is hooked up everyone must be behind the wing, except the hook up person.

9.      Use standard SSA signals and procedures for every launch.

10.  When in doubt, pull the red release handle or signal “STOP”.