alanhinsaudi

Talking of the tip to tip DVD, do we have an estimate of when it will be ready for release?

I'm pleased to read that I'm not the only one that struggles with forward launches. After a nasty incident where i did a painful face plant while attempting a forward launch I tried to avoid them at all costs! It was only the fact that we went through an extended period of nil wind where it was forward launch or I didn't fly and the need to fly won. A number of instructors and pilots have given me tips on how to successfully forward launch most of which contradict each other. I have found that applying power as the wing comes up assists the inflation of the wing puts me in a position and allows me to start the takeoff run immediately the wing is over head without any hesitation. However most of my friends successfully forward launch without the use of power until they are already moving forward. It seems to me that you find the method that works for you and stick with it. I have also found that getting a friend to video tape my launches and landings allows me to monitor my performance and make adjustments to my technique where required. Alan

Ramadan Mubarak to all our muslim friends Alan

Francis, Are there any pre-requisites in terms of flying experience to be able to participate? Alan

Darren, Disk is on its way. Alan

I use a PAP but with a ROS 125 engine and PAP recommends CASTROL TTS Premix or MOTUL 700. I use the TTS.

Darren, It was a privilege being there for your first flight. You did very well and you looked like you really enjoyed it. I've made the disk of photographs to send to you but here are some to be going on with. Alan http://paramotorclub.org/forum/album_pic.php?pic_id=600 http://paramotorclub.org/forum/album_pic.php?pic_id=601 http://paramotorclub.org/forum/album_pic.php?pic_id=602

Simon, Thanks for a nice out. It was unfortunate I didn't get to fly but it was nice to meet some fellow paramotorists and great to see Daren fly for the first time. Many thanks Alan

I've got a flytec 6030 and I'm wondering if anyone knows how to download a map to the unit. I've created objects and routes but I can't work out how to down load a map. I'm not even sure if you can! Can anyone help

Are there any fly ins this weekend? I woudn't visiting one if possible

Simon, When would be a convinent time to come to vist? Also are there any good B&Bs in the area?

Although I've not experienced a bake prop strike myself I've seen it happen a number of times but luckily these have not resulted in injury. These incidents have, bar one, happened on take off when the Pilot released the brakes to get into the seat. This transition has to be the most dangerous time for an incident like this to happen as if the break does get caught in the prop, you will be in the ground before you have time to react. It seems to me that the transition into the seat is not only the most dangerous but also the most likely time for impact to occur because your upright position in the harness naturally brings the break handles closer to the prop and (for me anyway) the engine is at full power dragging my lardy backside into the air. I was taught always to ensure the brakes were properly parked before getting into the seat but it is surprising how many ‘experienced’ pilots just seem to have forgotten this message. Those of you involved in the aviation industry will have had human factors training and therefore understand the term. I’m a big advocate of human factors training for pilots and engineers and as paramotor pilots we generally fit in both categories. Therefore we need to understand that, although we may think we know better, this is not necessarily the case. By letting the defenses down in one area (flying or maintenance) may allow ‘hidden’ failures (design, manufacture or training deficiency) become apparent and put us in life threatening situations. When I bought a paramotor I automatically bought a reserve chute and I was surprised when this was subject to some sarcastic comments! More relevant to this topic though, I also carry a hook knife so I can cut a break line if it did get snagged on a prop. When it comes to safety equipment my view is I would rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it! The moral of this post is therefore this Like all aviation activities there is risk in what we do however safety should be an integral part of our sport from the design and manufacture of our equipment, how we maintain our equipment, how we are trained and ultimately how we fly. However, that said, I always carry the equipment to maximise my chances of survival if there were to be a failure of one or more of these elements that would put me in a life threatening position. “Plan for worst, hope for the best and enjoy the flying.”

Gents, Just to remind you I will be on vacation from the 17th August till the 7th September. If you need anything you can contact me on my mobile. See you all soon and I'm looking forward to getting back into the air.

Classic

Slim, How do I order one? Alan

Thanks, I've managed to source one from a company called Expansys for £98 including VAT and postage. All the other retailers were quoting between £130 to £140. Expansys don't have them in stock but order them as required but as I don't need it immediately it isn't a problem.

Is there a recommended place to purchase one of these?

Gents, The tracking and pilot blogs are great, It makes you feel as if your part of the event! Watched the tracking last night as you reached lamborn. Hope weather is good for you today. Everyone here is behind you.

Sorry Can't see any link to a video clip?

I look like a camel now!

Good luck from everyone in Saudi.

I think they fancied our wings more than we fancied a barbequed camel. I've tried camel meat and it is an acquired taste. For those planning to come to Saudi to fly it will be on the menu!

While we were flying on Friday we were visted by these curious animals. http://paramotorclub.org/forum/album_pic.php?pic_id=593

I want to get some paramotor equipment to fly in the UK but my wife has put her foot down as I have a large collection of R/C aircraft and she has told me that if I want to get a paramotor the models have to go! Therefore, is there anyone interested in doing a trade? The collection of aircraft has a large £ value as I don't do things by half. I would therefore be looking for a parajet, PAP with ros 125 or something similar in exchange or part exchange for the models. The models include a Helicopter complete but not flown, a large scale Spitfire (Petrol engine) complete but not flown, a 1/3 scale Pitts special complete but not flown, large scale extra 300 flown only a couple of times. There is also a large fibreglass P-51 mustang that requires finishing. The cost of theses models complete with hardware, engines & radio equipment is well in excess of £3000. Anyone interested please let me know. Pictures below http://www.paramotorclub.org/forum/albu ... pic_id=598 http://www.paramotorclub.org/forum/albu ... pic_id=599

Here is the link to show the trike http://paramotorclub.org/forum/album_pic.php?pic_id=590 Alan