Launch Methods
Foot Launching - This is the traditional method of launch. The pilot gets the hang glider to flying speed by running into the wind down hill. If the incline is greater than the glide path the wing becomes airborne. Training usually begins on a small (less than one hundred feet) hill at the bottom and progresses higher. Solo flights are normal during all training. Video 1 Video 2
Aero-towing - a powered ultra-light tows you on a 200 foot rope up to altitude. You can go really high very quickly this way. Typical release height is between 2,000 and 2,500 feet. Tandem instruction (you and an instructor) is required for beginner training. Best if combined with foot launching instruction.
Platform Towing - A winch is attached
to a trailer or directly to an automobile and the glider is towed up to
altitude. A bit limited due to the road direction having to be into the
wind (mostly) and the road needing to be free of traffic and obstacles.
There also needs to be a safe landing area for the pilot in an emergency
or when the flight is completed. Typical tows are probably between 800
and 1,500 feet. Tandem instruction (you and an instructor) is required
for beginner training.
Video
Boat Towing - (another form of Platform Towing) where you tow from a platform on a motor boat and land on the water. The hang glider is outfitted with pontoons. Typical launches are between 1,000 and feet. Tandem instruction (you and an instructor) is required for beginner training. Video
Surface/Scooter Towing - A high speed winch is stationed at one end of a long road, field, or runway and a long length of rope is laid out to the glider. The winch is manned by an experienced operator (instructor). Typical tow heights depend on many factors, such as length of line, length of field, wind speed, pilot experience, etc. Solo flights are normal during all training. Because the instructor has the ability to immediately stop the tow and control the speed this is an excellent training method. Using a hang glider with a large wing span and having a very slow stall speed allows a very gently flight without having to gain a lot of altitude. Low and Slow. waterproof hang gliding bags waterproof hang gliding bags
