In Flight Characteristics; Normal Flight; Active Flying - Ozone ALPINA 2 Handbuch

In Flight Characteristics

The Alpina 2 shows no unusual flying characteristics, turns are
smooth and coordinated, it remains solid and well pressured on glide,
even through the accelerated speed range. It has a very high resis-
tance to both collapses and stalls. However, it is a high performance
XC wing and is therefore only suitable for experienced pilots who fly
approximately 100hrs a year and who have SIV experience.

Normal Flight

Flying at 'trim speed' (hands-up), the Alpina 2 will achieve its 'best
glide' speed for still air. You should fly at this speed when gliding
downwind or when the air is not excessively sinking.
For better penetration in headwinds and improved glide perform-
ance in sinking air, crosswinds or headwinds, you should fly faster
than trim speed by using the accelerator system. Using up to half
bar does not degrade the glide angle or stability significantly and
will improve your flying performance. You will reach the next thermal
faster and higher. At full speed the Alpina 2 is stable; however we
recommend that you do not fly at full speed close to the ground or in
turbulence.
By applying the brakes approximately 20cm, the Alpina 2 will achieve
its minimum-sink rate; this is the speed for best climb and is the
speed to use for thermalling and ridge soaring.
Turning
To familiarize yourself with the Alpina 2 your first turns should be
gradual and progressive. To make efficient and coordinated turns
with the Alpina 2 your first input for directional change should be
weight-shift, followed by the smooth application of the brake until the
desired bank angle is achieved. To regulate the speed and radius of
the turn, coordinate your weight shift and use the outer brake.
IMPORTANT: Never initiate a turn at minimum speed (i.e.
with full brakes on) as you could risk entering a spin.
IMPORTANT: Always check for clear airspace before making
a turn!

Active Flying

To minimize the likelihood of suffering collapses in turbulent condi-
tions, it is essential to use active flying.
Flying with a small amount of brake applied (approx. 20cm) will give
you feedback from the wing. In turbulent conditions the internal pres-
sure of the wing can change and you will feel this through the brakes.
The aim is to maintain a constant pressure through the brakes. If
you feel a loss in pressure apply the brakes until normal pressure
is resumed then raise hands back to original position (this must be
done quickly). Avoid flying with continuous amounts of deep brake in
rough air as you could inadvertently stall the wing. Always consider
your airspeed.
These movements can be symmetric or asymmetric; you may have to
apply both brakes or just one. These subtle adjustments will keep the
glider flying smoothly and directly above you and dramatically reduce
the chances of a collapse. If the glider pitches in front of you, use the
brakes to slow it down. Equally, if the glider drops behind you, release
the brakes to allow it to speed up. The goal is to always keep the
wing directly overhead.
These are skills that are best learnt by playing with the glider on the
ground!
IMPORTANT: No pilot and no glider are immune to collapses
however active flying will virtually eliminate any tendency
to collapse. When the conditions are turbulent, be more ac-
tive and anticipate the movements of your wing. Always be
aware of your altitude and do not over-react. We strongly
advice you to always keep hold of your brakes. Do not fly in
turbulent conditions.
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