What its all about!
I thought it may be helpful to share some of the experiences and thoughts I have gained whilst flying FLPHG units, but primarily flying the Booster. The Booster is a little different with regard to set up and operation, but offers an excellent FLPHG capability.
Note that these are my hints and notes that work for me and are provided for additional information only to interested experienced FLPHG pilots. I would thoroughly recommend that HG pilots wanting to fly using a Booster or other power unit seek professional training from a BHPA or BMAA approved FLPHG instructor, or a BHPA Senior Power Coach if BHPA 'Pilot' rated.
Currency
I consider 'currency' (how often you fly) to be very important with FLPHG, as it is with all forms of Hang Gliding. It is especially important to develop good technique for FLPHG and in particular Take Off technique. If you are new to FLPHG, but have hundreds of hours Hill, Tow or Winch launched Hang Gliding then don't make the mistake of assuming a FLPHG is a 'piece of cake' and your experience will always carry you through! Practice is important and it is a very worthwhile idea to concentrate solely on FLPHG for a season and get as many hours and flights as possible in as short a time period as possible. There are a few very experienced Hang Gliding competition pilots who have had accidents, or near accidents with FLPHG, which can probably be put down to poor FLPHG technique or poor assessment (conditions, launch area etc).
Personally I think a FLPHG pilot should be aiming for at least 50hrs a year (FLPHG) and have at least one day free each week for flying (weather permitting). Anything less than that and I would consider them to be infrequent pilots and not very current. Of course there is nothing wrong with not being current as it is sometimes unavoidable due to a long spell of bad weather over the winter months or short time family or work commitments, however it is important recognise this and fly accordingly.
The number of hours gained in the last 3 months is a better indication of currency than how many hundreds of hours gained during the past 10 years!
Be honest with yourself, if you can't devote sufficient time to FLPHG then perhaps it isn't for you!
Use of the Booster Hand Throttle
A FAQ (frequently asked question) regards the hand throttle and how it is put on. Select this link to see a series of photo showing my method of strapping on the hand throttle and how the upright is gripped.
General Booster Notes
This and link pages are still a Work in Progress
