PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - Glider down in a field in Angus
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Old 3rd Apr 2012, 03:18
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chrisN
 
Join Date: Feb 2001
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I use a one-person rigging aid (to put the wings on and off) and it works fine if the ground is reasonably level. It takes slightly longer than if a competent helper is available, but still only 15 minutes or so to rig to the point that the airframe is ready.

Taping up the gaps (almost the last bit of the video clip above) to make for really clean aerodynamics, and putting in carry-on pilot equipment including logger, computer, programming intended route, etc., can take as long again – but most of that needs doing even if it is kept rigged in a hangar, plus a DI (daily inspection – like a walk round plus some bits).

DI is taught by clubs, and pilots have their log books signed to show competence, usually after learning to do it on a club glider. Other types one learns from others and/or the handbook. It is not part of any formal examination in the UK AFAIK.

I think the French invented certificate requirements and nomenclature for records distances and heights, hence the metric notation. It is not just gliding – ballooning and other aviation sporting achievements use them too. There is a clue in the name of the world body that governs it all – FAI (Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, "FAI - The World Air Sports Federation").

Chris N

Last edited by chrisN; 3rd Apr 2012 at 03:33.
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