Advance ALPHA 3 Manuel D'utilisation page 35

Start Check
- Lines free
- Canopy open
- Harness and helmet buckles properly closed
(reserve parachute OK)
- Wind direction and strength observed and evaluated.
- Airspace and visibility OK
Take off
The ALPHA 3 is suited to forward and reverse inflations. Lay the
canopy out so as to maintain its elliptical form at the leading edge.
Hold the A risers below the large quick link then advance until all
the A suspension lines are under light tension. Position yourself in
a central position relative to the canopy. At the start of take off,
gently accelerate and guide the risers until the canopy is above the
head, without either pulling down or pushing the risers exessively
forward. The canopy rises progressively without any «hard point».
The canopy will cease to rise if not guided by the risers. The ALPHA
3 inflates easily and rises without any overshooting.
Normal flight
The ALPHA 3 achieves «best glide» with brakes in the hands up
position. Lightly applying brakes will reduce the sink rate. When fly-
ing through turbulence the application of a small amount of brake
will increase stability.
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Turns
The ALPHA 3 possesses very comfortable brake pressure. It will
respond to brake application in an immediate and proportional
manner to the amount of brake applied.
To familiarise with this make your first turns in a gradual and progres-
sive manner. To make the most efficient turns in thermal conditions,
having found the core of the thermal we advise you to control the
radius of your circle with the outside brake, that gives more speed.
Flying with the speed system
The ALPHA 3 has an exceptionally flat polar curve. This gives very
good glide performance at high speeds. Remember though that the
accelerated glider is more unstable. Collapses during accelerated
flight occur with more energy and impulse. When flying through
turbulent air with the speed bar on, first release the speed bar then
apply the required amount of brake to keep the glider under control.
Symmetrical or assymmetrical collapses
The ALPHA 3 conveys a highly satisfying solid feel. An active flying
style will virtually eliminate collapses. Larger collapses (over 50%)
are characterised by a reasonably dynamic turn which is easily con-
trolled. For these situations we recommend the following :
Weight shift to the open side. Try to rotate with any ensuing turn so
as to reduce the potential for a twist. This also maintains airspeed
and internal pressure promoting a fast reopening. Depending on
the severity of the turn apply brake on the open side so as not to
enter a spiral dive but be aware of creating a potential stall. The
object is to fly the glider in a desirable direction (avoiding obstacles)
and then reopen the collapsed side using a generous pumping action.
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