Today I finally flew a real hang-glider after spending some days flying trainers. It was an aircraft with an 18-square-meter wing. My first impression was fantastic, as I was in the middle of the recommended weight limits! In Russia, I only flew training hang-gliders manufactured by Aeros with a 16-square-meter wing, so I was a little bit heavy for them. As I understand it, Icaro makes hang-gliders with 1-meter step wing areas. It’s so cool to fly a hang-glider that perfectly fits!
After using training models with 21-square-meter wings, I had to run much faster during takeoff and act more aggressively during landing. However, even with this wing, I can take off with no wind, which would be impossible for smaller wing area.
The second new factor was a new harness. This one is used for flying, while previously I wore the one that was more suitable for running. To be honest, I did not see any real difference during takeoff and landing, but it was amazing in the air. The only drawback is that I have to take it off to carry the hang-glider back to the hill and put it back on before takeoff.
I have to leave today, but I would like to come back. There are few places in the world with such incredible mountains where it is possible to fly in all seasons. I associate this place with a spirit of freedom. I think that later, when I am older and calmer, I will have a strong desire to live in such a place. Therefore, I just have to become older and calmer, find a beautiful mountain, and master my flying without an engine. However, that will be later. Right now, I have a lot of things to do, such as finishing my PPL – Private Pilot course 🙂
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