Special Note on Thermal Flying

Thermal conditions create a demand for pilots to not only have solid ground handling skills with a connected feel to their glider, but also a thorough understanding of how the local weather conditions play into the forecast models in order to be sufficiently prepared for a short launch window that demands certain launch techniques. Proficiency in high-wind-with-gusts kiting, no-wind forwards and light-wind dynamic reverse launches on shallow slopes are crucial for many of our sites and conditions.

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Please be aware that strength of conditions will determine if it is better to a.) launch between the thermal cycle, when speeds are zero or light, to then fly away into the next thermal approaching the hill with ample clearance from the terrain, or b.) pull glider up and launch glider directly into the thermal cycle blowing into launch.

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Many times launching during a zero- or light-wind cycle between the stronger thermals is not only a safer window, but a better plan to capitalize on the launch cycles as well as the flight plan.

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ISome pilots will "wait for the wind" (which is part of the thermal) to cycle through launch because they are not comfortable and/or proficient with forward and light wind launch techniques, only to experience a stronger cycle than anticipated once their glider was overhead.

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Pilots most accustomed to launching in prevailing winds, onshore winds and lighter thermal ridge lift need local, and perhaps local professional, expertise and guidance to gain the needed insight to fly our sites safely.

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Thermal activity can begin as early as 9:30 AM and continue past 5:00 PM at many times throughout the year. Additional altitude is needed to keep clear of terrain, achieving anticipated glide ratio, and avoiding airspace restrictions due to conditions commonly encountering strong lift, sink and turbulence. Active piloting, situational awareness and receiving local pilot knowledge and on-site briefings is crucial and required. Ground handling/kiting is not allowed on any of our Launches or in any Landing Zones and is best practiced early mornings and the last couple of hours before sunset in large grassy parks/areas in winds with minimal gust differential.

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Please be aware that we have hike-up launches which means there can be delayed response time for first-aid responders, again reiterating the need for proper preparations, exercising appropriate judgment, staying well within your operating limitations in order to minimize risk for Hang Gliding and Paragliding in the desert and high desert.

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Site Briefings and General Guidelines:

All pilots must have a thorough understanding of the individual site briefings and general guidelines prior to arriving. However, they do not replace the need for an in-person on-site briefing from a local instructor and or qualified pilot that has experience flying that individual site. On-site briefings from a local qualified pilot are a requirement.