Normal Flight - Nova Mentor Light 4 Handbuch

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Flying the MENTOR 4 LIGHT
We recommend completing your first flights with your new wing in
calm conditions. This will give you the opportunity to get to know your
glider. Launches and ground handling on a training hill will also help to
familiarise yourself with the paraglider.
Take off
General
The pilot has the responsibility to check that their entire equipment is
in full working order. In particular, the wing, harness and the parachute.
Immediately before launch we recommend the following pre-flight
check, which should be conscientiously performed before every take
off. Sadly, many launch accidents result from an omitted pre-flight
check.
1. Buckled-up: leg and chest straps are connected, chin strap on the
helmet is closed
2. Clipped-in: risers are not twisted, speed system is correctly connec-
ted, carabiners are locked
3. Lines: A-lines are on top, all lines are sorted and free of knots, brake
lines run cleanly through the low friction rings
4. Canopy: wing is laid out on launch in an arc with leading edge open
5. Wind and air space:
The MENTOR 4 LIGHT distinguishes itself by its easy inflation beha-
viour (both during forward and reverse launch) and without wanting to
hang back. The wing climbs cleanly and directly without a tendency to
overshoot.
wind is suitable for take off, air space is clear
Confident launches can only be learnt by practise - there is only a
limited knowledge to be gained from books and descriptions. So here
is a tip: Use every opportunity on a training hill to perfect your launch
technique. Ideally, have an experienced colleague or instructor with
you to provide feedback.
Tow launch
When towing, the MENTOR 4 LIGHT displays no peculiarities. Please
note that it is important to climb away from the ground at a shallow
angle.
We recommend the use of a tow adapter. This adapter is connected to
the main carabiners and links them with the tow release.

Normal flight

The MENTOR 4 LIGHT has its best glide performance at trim speed,
i.e. when the brakes are fully released. In calm air, the wing will travel
the greatest distance over a given height.
With headwind or a sinking airmass, maximum glide can be achieved
by using the speed system. During accelerated flight in turbulent air,
attention should be paid to the dynamic reaction of the wing in case of
a collapse. Lots of height above the ground is advisable.
In strong turbulence it is advisable to gently pull both brakes to increa-
se stability. The brakes provide feedback about the surrounding air,
which is needed for active flying.
By active flying we mean the constant control and correction of the
angle of attack in turbulent air. For example, if a pilot flies from an area
of lift to an area of sink, if there is no pilot input, the angle of attack will
be reduced and the wing will pitch forward. Reduced brake pressure
will indicate the start of this pitch movement to the pilot.
The correct reaction is to increase the brake input to prevent the
forward pitch.
Some of the required techniques can be practised during ground hand-
ling, for example, by attempting to keep the wing flying above your
head without looking at it. This exercise is also useful for successful
forward launches.
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Overall, the launch
behaviour is very
simple. The wing
forgives errors. No
special skills are
needed to launch
the wing.
!
Cases of an
escalation of a
collapse can be
prevented by
active flying.