Checking The Glider - Airdesign UFO 2 Betriebshandbuch

The UFO 2 consists mainly of Nylon cloth.
The special coating makes the material not losing much strength or become porosity through
exposure to UV radiation. However, despite this, the pilot should take care to not expose the
glider unnecessarily to sunlight. Unpack shortly before take-off and pack the glider right after
landing.
The UFO 2 is lined with unsheathed Aramid lines. Take care not to stress any line mechanically.
Overloading should be avoided as a stretching is non-reversible. Continuous bending of Aramid
lines at the same spot weakens the strength.
When putting the glider to the ground avoid dirt and dust as much as possible. Dirt can get
between the fibres of the lines which may shorten the lines and damage the covering.
When lines get caught during take-off, they can stretch or even break. Do not step on lines.
Sharp edges on the ground can damage the sheathing.
A brake line tangled around other lines can tear or cause damage.
Take care that no snow, stones or sand get into the nose as it can change the gliders
behaviours.
When launching in strong winds the canopy can, if not controlled, overshoot and hit the
ground hard. This can lead to tears in the ribs or damage the sail or stitching.
When landing, avoid the leading edge hitting the ground in front of the pilot. This can damage
the materials in the leading edge.
After landings in trees or water the line length must be checked. After contact with salt water
wash the glider immediately with clean water.
Avoid contact between the fabric and sweat. When doing sweaty hiking put the glider into a
plastic bag inside your rucksack to prevent that the sweat will come into the wing.
Do not pull the glider over rough ground; his can damage the cloth at the contact points.
Do not pack the glider too tightly when storing it long-time.

9. Checking the glider

Even with the best possible care each glider is subjected to a certain ageing which can affect
the flying characteristics, performance and safety.
A thorough inspection of all components, including checking suspension line strength, line
geometry, riser geometry and permeability of the canopy material is mandatory.
2-Years Inspection:
After 24 months or 100 flight hours (whichever occurs first) the glider must be inspected. This
check will be made by the manufacturer, importer, distributor or other authorised persons.
The checking must be proven by a stamp on the certification sticker on the glider as well in the
service book.
If a glider is NOT checked according to this schedule, the airworthiness warranty of the glider is
invalidated.
More information about servicing and inspections can be found in the document "Inspection
Information" available on the AIRDESIGN website www.ad-gliders.com
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