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Big ears:
When in big-ears, the horizontal speed is higher than the sink rate, unlike a spiral dive
or a B-line stall. This rapid descent technique is used to quickly and horizontally exit a
dangerous area in the desired direction. In order to collapse the outside wing, pull the
outside A-lines.
When the pilot holds the outside A1-risers on both sides and pulls them down, the Elan
Light easily tucks the outside wings and enters a stable descent mode. The pilot keeps
hold of the brake handles along with the outside A1-risers in his hands. By braking on
one side and weight-shifting, the canopy remains steerable. In order to increase the sink
rate as well as the horizontal speed, this manoeuvre should be done together with use
of the speed system. Apply the speed system after big ears are induced (step into the
speed-bar before you grab the outer A1-risers). Big-ears substantially reduces the risk
of canopy stability problems in turbulent air. To exit Big-ears release the A1-risers.
The canopy does very slowly self-recover. To quicken the recovery, the pilot can
dynamicaly pull down and immediately release the brakes of the glider.
WARNING! Never do big-ears in spirals, as this may drastically reduce the number of
lines taking the already high loads, causing structural failure.
Attention! All rapid descent techniques should first be practised in calm air and with
sufficient height so the pilot can use them in emergency situations! By far the best
technique is to fly correctly and safely, so you never have to descend rapidly!
B-line stalls:
To induce a B-line stall symmetrically pull down slowly on both B-risers, until the canopy
folds (parallel to its long axis). The airflow over the top surface is almost fully detached
and the canopy enters a vertical descent flight mode without forward movement. Further
pulling of the B-risers reduces the surface area more and increases the sink rate. (Up to
8 m/s) Be careful, pulling too far or too rapidly may cause a frontal horseshoe to form.
To exit from this flight mode release the B-risers at first rapidly but then gently (1 sec).
The canopy surges forward re-attaching the airflow over the top surface and resumes
normal flight. When the B-risers are released, the brakes should not be activated.
This will give the canopy the chance to gain speed and resume normal flight. On exit
from a B-line stall on no account just release the B-risers, as this can cause
overloading. If canopy does not recover apply both brakes gently to recover or pull the
A-risers, until the canopy regains forward speed.
Summary:
For all extreme manoeuvres and rapid descents please note:
first practise manoeuvres with an instructor during safety training!
before inducing any manoeuvre the pilot must check that there are no other
airspace users below him!
during the manoeuvre the pilot must have the canopy within his view!
