II. Preflight Procedures Flashcards
(9 cards)
When should a pilot conduct a preflight check?
Before getting in the glider
How long should the tow rope be for ground handling?
10 feet longer than one half the wingspan.
For the Blanik - 36 feet. Wingspan is 53 feet. Half is 26, plus 10 is 36 feet.
How do you handle the glider in strong winds?
Use two wing walkers, and possibly a pilot at the controls to use flight controls and airbrakes.
When is a weak link required in a tow line?
If the breaking strength is more than twice the certificated weight of the glider.
When is ballast required for the Blanik?
When the front pilot weighs less than 154 lbs
What is water ballast for?
To achieve a higher air speed in gliding performance.
What should the breaking strength of the rope be?
Between 80 to 200% of the max gross weight of the glider.
What are the relative strengths of the weak links?
The glider side weak link should be within the 80-200% range. The two plane’s weak link should be stronger by 25%.
Why should items be secured in the cockpit?
Because they could become missiles in the cockpit in the event we encounter rough air or have to pull high wing loading maneuvers.
