Pilot Proficiency System TOC (pg 2)
104.12 HANG GLIDING TANDEM REQUIREMENTS
12.01 Administration
A. The USHGA has established a three-tiered system of requirements for tandem
("two-place" or "dual") flying: Tandem 1 and Tandem 2 for recreational tandem
flying, and Tandem Instructor for instructional tandem flying. These requirements
are in addition to those established by the Federal Aviation Administration
tandem exemption.
B. All necessary information will be distributed and administered by specially designated USHGA Tandem Administrators and Tandem Instructors. Tandem Administrators are appointed by the Tandem Committee. A study guide and flight and written examination requirement information packages are available from the office of the USHGA.
1. New appointment requests for Tandem Administrator shall be recommended and presented to the Tandem Committee by the applicant's Regional Director.
2. Regional Directors may not issue Tandem ratings unless the Regional Director is also a Tandem Official.
C. The Tandem 1 rating involves minimal requirements and regulation, as this form of flying takes place only between qualified and consenting USHGA rated pilots. This rating is authorized by Tandem Instructors after administering the written examination and witnessing the proper flight skills utilizing the designated launch method.*
1. Attendance in a tandem training program or USHGA Tandem Certification Clinic is recommended.
D. Tandem 2 rating requirements are much more stringent, and require a substantial amount of tandem experience, as they allow flights with USHGA Student rated passengers of limited experience, who have in their possession a "laminated" USHGA Student Membership Card. This rating is authorized only by the office of the USHGA, after the applicant pilot submits proof of complying with all requirements, including successful completion of a USHGA Tandem Instructor Certification Clinic.
Tandem 2 rated pilots may not offer instruction, and may not accept any form of remuneration for their flight services.
E. Tandem Instructor Rating requirements include those requirements for a Tandem 2 rating as well as specific written approval from the applicant's Regional Director and a Tandem Administrator for the Tandem Instructor rating.
1. Tandem Instructors may charge fees for lessons. Tandem Instructors may issue Student ratings and Tandem 1 ratings.
F. USHGA Tandem Instructor Certification Clinics shall be administered by designated Tandem Administrators, trained in USHGA clinic procedures, and using text, study, and examination materials provided by the USHGA. Tandem Administrators are appointed by the Tandem Committee with the approval of the Regional Director.
G. The designated launch methods will be foot launch (FL) or platform launch (PL). Tandem pilots, Tandem Instructors and Tandem Clinic Administrators qualified in one launch discipline will operate only in that discipline for which they are rated.
* Designated launch method is the term given to the "footlaunch" sign-off (FL) and the "platform-launch" sign-off (PL)
H. All Tandem ratings are valid for 3 years from the date of issuance.
1. Tandem 1 rating renewal requires that the pilot either:
a. submit documentation (to their Regional Director or a Tandem Instructor) showing a minimum of 10 flights of 2 minutes duration or longer per year over the previous three year period; or,
b. take and pass a check flight exam with a Tandem Instructor.
2. Tandem 2/Tandem Instructor rating renewal requires that the pilot obtain Regional Director approval for the renewal, and, either:
a. submit documentation (to their Regional Director) showing a minimum of 10 flights of 2 minutes duration or longer per year over the previous three year period; or,
b. take and pass a check flight exam with a Tandem Administrator.
I. NOTE: The USHGA has a procedure to rescind any Tandem rating.
12.02
- Pilot Rating Requirements
A. Tandem 1
1. Current USHGA Advanced rating, Turbulence sign-off, AND;
2. Minimum 200 hours of logged airtime, OR 100 hours with 500 flights of at least 500 ft. vertical descent, OR 100 hours with 500 flights of 2 minutes duration or longer.
3. Ability to consistently perform zero-wind and light crosswind launches, and zero-wind and light-wind landings culminating in zero ground speed at the moment of the flare and when the pilots feet first contact the ground.
4. At least 2 logged tandem flights as passenger with a USHGA Tandem rated pilot using the designated launch method.
5. Successful completion of flight skills test to be administered by a designated USHGA Tandem Instructor. This test will include, as a minimum, a passenger briefing, a successful tandem launch and a successful tandem approach and landing with the candidate as tandem pilot in command, observed by a USHGA Tandem Instructor (who must be the tandem passenger on this flight) utilizing the designated launch method.
6. Successful completion of a written test administered by a USHGA Tandem Instructor.
7. Neither flight skills test or written test is to be administered prior to completion of pilot rating requirements.
8. Must attend a minimum one day tandem training clinic for tandem techniques that is given by a Tandem Instructor.
9. Must agree to all the provisions of the USHGA standard waiver and assumption of risk agreement for the Tandem 1 rating and deliver an original signed copy to the USHGA office.
1. Current USHGA Advanced rating with Turbulence sign-off
2. 200 hours, etc. as above
3. At least 15 logged tandem flights of at least 500 ft. vertical descent or at least 2 minutes duration as pilot in command using the designated launch method.
4. Successful completion of the written, oral and flight tests administered by a Tandem Administrator. Completion of this clinic cannot precede above requirements.
5. Endorsement of the candidate's Regional Director.
6. Must agree to all the provisions of the USHGA standard waiver and assumption of risk agreement for the Tandem 2 rating and deliver an original signed copy to the USHGA office.
1. A current Tandem 2 rating.
2. Specific approval of a Tandem Administrator for the Tandem Instructor rating.
3. Successful completion of a Tandem Instructor Certification Clinic is mandatory.
4. Endorsement of the candidate's Regional Director.
5. Must agree to all the provisions of the USHGA standard waiver and assumption of risk agreement for the Tandem Instructor rating and deliver an original signed copy to the USHGA office.
12.03 Operating Restrictions and Limitations
A. Tandem 1
1. May fly tandem recreational flights only with passengers in possession of a current laminated USHGA Beginner rating card or higher, and utilizing their designated launch method (FL or PL).
2. Maximum allowable passenger "hook-in" weight is 120% of that of the pilot-in-command "hook-in" weight;
3. Maximum allowable wing loading is 2.0 lbs. per sq. ft.
B. Tandem 2
1. Pilot may offer recreational tandem flights only, utilizing their designated launch method (FL or PL).
2. Pilot may not accept any form of remuneration for his/her services.
3. Passenger must have in their possession a current laminated USHGA Student rating card or higher. Temporary rating form is not acceptable.
4. Maximum allowable "hook-in" weight of passenger to be 120% of the Tandem 2 pilot.
5. Maximum allowable wing loading 2.0 lbs. per sq. ft.
C. Tandem Instructor:
1. May offer recreational or instructional flights, utilizing their designated launch method (FL or PL).
2. Student must have on their possession a USHGA "student" rating or higher.
3. Maximum "hook-in" weight of passenger to be determined by Instructor.
4. Maximum recommended wing loading 2.0 lbs per sq. ft.
D. It is suggested that pilot-in-command fly on the side allowing free throw of back-up reserve parachute system with his/her dominant hand (i.e. right-handed pilot flies to the right of passenger).
E. Prior to all tandem flights, the passenger or student must be informed that such flights are conducted under an exemption granted by the FAA, and that the ultralight vehicle does not meet aircraft certification standards set forth by the FAA.
F. When present at a flying site, a Tandem Instructor shall personally ensure that all tandem flying requirements and the site requirements are being strictly followed. He shall personally inspect the USHGA ratings of both tandem passengers and pilots, and shall have the authority to halt those tandem flights that are in non-compliance. Noncompliance shall be reported to the Regional Director.
G. Possession of FAA's Part 103, FAR Grant of Exemption #4271 is mandatory while flying tandem.
H. This exemption terminates on October 31, 1998, unless sooner superseded or rescinded.
I. All tandem accidents should be reported by the tandem pilot involved and any other tandem pilot aware of the accident.
A. At least one back-up reserve parachute which is rated for the gross load being flown and provides a descent rate no greater than 21 fps at the gross load being flown, is required on flights where any reasonable possibility of successful deployment exists. A 24 gore PDA or larger canopy is recommended. A 22 gore conical or 20 gore PDA canopy is minimally required.
B. Appropriate helmets are required for both occupants during flight.
C. The total combined load carrying capacity of all main suspension components connecting the pilot and passenger to the glider must be at least 8,000 lbs, and there must be a connection of the pilot to the passenger which has a minimum total strength of 4,000 lbs.
D. Although choice of other equipment is up to the individual pilot-in-command, a HGMA certified glider, control bar wheels and knee pads are recommended.
A reprint of the operational parameters of this exemption are listed below:
" . . . individuals authorized by the United States Hang Gliding Association, Inc., are hereby granted an exemption from the . . .
Federal Aviation Regulations to the extent necessary to permit them to operate unpowered ultralight vehicles with another occupant for the purpose of sport and recreation. The exemption is subject to the following conditions and limitations:
1. Each operation must comply with all sections of Part 103, except 103.1 ( a) of the FAR.
2. For training purposes, this exemption applies only to flights for the purpose of giving instruction in two-place unpowered ultralight vehicles from USHGA-approved launch sites.
3. Both occupants on all two-place training flights must possess a current pilot rating issued by the USHGA and at least one occupant must possess a current USHGA instructor rating.
4. Prior to all two-occupant training flights, the student must be informed that the flight is conducted under an exemption granted by the FAA and that the ultralight vehicle does not meet aircraft certification standards set forth by the FAA.
5. Both occupants on all two-place flights, other than for training purposes, must possess a current pilot rating issued by the USHGA and at least one occupant must possess a current Advanced hang gliding rating issued by the USHGA.
6. For identification purposes, the USHGA shall issue an individual authorization to each person allowed to conduct operations under this exemption. Each authorization shall include an identification number and a copy of this exemption. The USHGA shall also have a procedure to rescind this authority when needed.
7. Each individual who operates an ultralight vehicle under the authority of this exemption must be familiar with the provisions contained herein and must have in his or her personal possession a copy of the authorization issued by the USHGA and a copy of this exemption. These documents shall be presented for inspection upon request by the FAA.
This exemption terminates on October 31, 1998, unless sooner superseded or rescinded.
Thomas
C. Accardi
Acting Director of Flight Standards
Issued in Washington, D.C. on October 9, 1986
104.13
BEGINNER PARAGLIDING RATINGS
General Description
A Beginner pilot has the knowledge and basic skills necessary to fly and practice
under direct instructor supervision and within significant operating limitations.
The pilot understands the USHGA paragliding rating systems and recommended
operating limitations.
13.01 Beginner Rating - Foot Launch - Required Witnessed Tasks
A. Attends and completes a basic ground school.
B. Layout and preflight of canopy and harness.
C. Demonstrates canopy handling skills sufficient to launch from a training hill under control.
D. With each flight, demonstrate method(s) of establishing that pilot is properly connected to the canopy, with cleared lines and risers, just prior to inflation. >
E. Launch unassisted showing:
- Aggressive inflation and run.
- Pendulum control during launch.
- Directional control.
- Smooth transition from running to flying, during launch.
F. Airspeed recognition and control,
Two flights, predetermined to show:
a. Constant airspeed.
b. Smooth straight flight.
c. Safe, smooth landing, on feet, into wind.
2. Two flights, predetermined to show:
a. Confident, slight variation in airspeed showing awareness of control inputs and pendulum control.
b. Smoothly increasing airspeed, and smoothly slowing airspeed showing good control.
c. Safe, smooth landing, on feet, into wind.
G. Shows the ability to recognize and understand how different wind conditions at this site will affect their flights.
H. On each flight, demonstrates proper post-landing procedure, to include, but not limited to:
I. Demonstration of understanding of the importance of proper packing, storage, and care of the canopy.
J. Has read and understands USHGA statements regarding good judgement and maturity.
K. Must pass the USHGA Beginner Paragliding written exam.
L. Must agree to all the provisions of the USHGA standard waiver and assumption of risk agreement for the Beginner rating and deliver an original signed copy to the USHGA office.
13.02
Beginner Rating - Tow Launch - Required Witnessed Tasks
A. Must demonstrate the above-mentioned (13.01) Beginner paraglider rating
foot-launching tasks except 13.01.C,E.
B. Must demonstrate system setup and preflight, including a complete discussion of all those factors which are particular to the specific tow system used and those factors which are relevant to towing in general. Must demonstrate complete understanding of both normal and emergency procedures, including checklists for normal procedures and the indications of an impending emergency and convince the Instructor of his ability to recognize and execute emergency procedures.
C. Demonstrates successful, confident, controlled launches and flight under tow to release at altitude, with a smooth transition to flying, with proper directional and pitch control resulting in proper tracking of the tow line and appropriate maintenance of proper tow line tension and airspeed. Such demonstrations may be made in ideal wind conditions. >
D. Demonstrates understanding of all Beginner-level Paragliding Tow Discussion Topics. >
E. Must agree to all the provisions of the USHGA standard waiver and assumption of risk agreement for the Beginner rating and deliver an original signed copy to the USHGA office.
13.03
Recommended Operating Limitations for Beginner Pilots:
A. Should exceed these limitations only after demonstrating complete mastery
of the required Beginner paragliding tasks (above), and only after acquiring
a full understanding of the potential problems and dangerous situations which
may arise from exceeding these limitations.
B. All flights be made under the direct supervision of a USHGA Certified Basic or Advanced Paragliding Instructor.
C. Should fly only in steady winds of 12 m.p.h. or less.
D. Should footlaunch only on slopes of 3:1 - 4:1, where wind is within 15 of being straight up the slope.
E. Should launch only when there are no obstructions within 60 to either side of the intended flight path.
F. Should fly appropriate sites for this skill level.
G. Should fly a canopy recommended by the manufacturer as suitable for Beginner or Novice pilots.
104.14
- NOVICE PARAGLIDING RATING
General Description
A Novice paraglider pilot has the knowledge and basic skills necessary to
fly and practice without direct instructor supervision but within significant
operating limitations. The pilot understands the USHGA paragliding rating
systems and recommended operating limitations.
The pilot shall use good judgement and have a level of maturity commensurate with the rating. Pilots must demonstrate Beginner level skills and knowledge before obtaining the Novice rating. All witnessed flights must be pre-planned by the pilot and discussed with the Instructor or specially qualified Observer.
14.01
Novice Rating - Foot Launch - Required Witnessed Tasks
A. Logged Requirements
B. Demonstrated Skills and Knowledge
a. Maintain directional control during and correct for an asymmetric wing fold of 25% of the wing span.
b. Fly at minimum sink while precluding any chance of inadvertent stall or spin.
c. Increase descent rate and/or forward speed.
24. Demonstrates proper and effective PLF technique.
25. Must pass the USHGA Novice Paragliding written exam.
26. Must agree to all the provisions of the USHGA standard waiver and assumption of risk agreement for the Novice rating and deliver an original signed copy to the USHGA office.
14.02
Novice Rating - Tow Launch - Required Witnessed Tasks
A. Must demonstrate the above-mentioned (14.01) Novice paraglider rating foot-launching
tasks except 14.01.B (demonstrated tasks 8 - 11).
B. Must demonstrate system setup and preflight, including a complete discussion of all those factors which are particular to the specific tow system used and those factors which are relevant to towing in general. Must demonstrate complete understanding of both normal and emergency procedures, including checklists for normal procedures and the indications of an impending emergency and convince the Instructor of his ability to recognize and execute emergency procedures.
C. Demonstrates successful, confident, controlled launches and flight under tow to release at altitude, with a smooth transition to flying, with proper directional and pitch control resulting in proper tracking of the tow line and appropriate maintenance of proper tow line tension and airspeed.
D. Demonstrates understanding of all Novice-level Paragliding Tow Discussion Topics.
14.03
Recommended Operating Limitations for Novice Paragliding Pilots
A. Should exceed these limitations only after thoroughly mastering all required
tasks, and after acquiring a full understanding of the potential problems
and dangers involved in exceeding these limitations.
B. Maximum base wind of 12 m.p.h.
C. Maximum peak gusts to 15 m.p.h.
D. Maximum gust rate of 5 m.p.h. in 5 seconds.
E. Should not fly in thermal lift where peak climb rates exceed 200 fpm.
F. If foot launching, should launch only on slopes steeper than 4:1, where the wind is within 25 of being straight up the slope.
G. Visual contact with the landing zone.
H. Avoid application of either brake beyond 2/3 of the way from slack to stall position.
I. Limit turns to 30 of bank, limit speed in turns to 1.5 times the straight line, brakes off, cruise speed, and smoothly exit any spiral turn which shows a tendency to steepen or accelerate.
J. Should fly a canopy recommended by the manufacturer as suitable for Beginner to Intermediate pilots.
104.15
- INTERMEDIATE PARAGLIDING RATING
General Description
The pilot has the knowledge and skills to fly most sites in mild to moderate
soaring conditions, and to judge when the site and conditions are within the
pilot's skill, knowledge, and experience level. The pilot understands the
USHGA paragliding rating system as recommended operating limitations, and
the FARs and other flying rules applicable to his/her flying (ridge rules,
thermal right of way, FAR 103, aircraft sectional use and regulated airspace
avoidance, etc.).
The pilot shall use good judgement and have a level of maturity commensurate with the rating.
15.01
Intermediate Rating - Foot/Tow Launch - Required Witnessed Tasks
A. Logged Requirements
B. Demonstrated Skills and Knowledge
1. has received training in and/or understands the importance and significance of:
a. Right of way rules.
b. FAA Regulations and aircraft sectional charts
c. Airspeed control, stalls, spins, and turbulence-induced collapses and recoveries.
d. Canopy owners manual.
e. USHGA Accident Report results currently in print.
2. Can give verbal analysis of conditions on the hill, demonstrating knowledge of wind shadows, gradients, lift, sink, laminar air, turbulence and rotors, and the effect these items have on an intended flight path and turns.
3. Must give a verbal flight plan for each observed flight.
4. Must show thorough preflight of the harness, canopy, and backup reserve parachute.
5. With each flight, demonstrates a method of establishing that the pilot is properly connected to the glider, with cleared lines and risers just prior to launch.
6. All inflations/launches should be aggressive, confident, and with a smooth transition from running to flying. Flights with slow, unstable inflations/launches will not be considered adequate for witnessed tasks.
7. For witnessed tasks, all landings must be safe, smooth, on the feet, and in control.
8. Demonstrates the ability to differentiate airspeed from ground speed.
9. Demonstrates linked 180 turns along a predetermined ground track showing smooth controlled reversals and proper coordination at various speeds and bank angles.
10. Demonstrates 360 turns in both directions, and at various speeds and bank angles.
11. Demonstrates symmetric and asymmetric tip folds (25% per side, 50% total) or some other method of canopy reduction for increased descent rate.
12. Demonstrates one method to increase forward speed.
13. Demonstrates proper surge control of canopy using properly timed brake application.
14. Gives a thorough verbal description of how to maintain directional control during and correct for an 50% asymmetric wing collapse.
15. Explains characteristics of impending stall and impending spin.
16. In 8 to 15 m.p.h. winds, demonstrates the ability to maintain airspeed at or near minimum sink during crosswind and upwind legs, without any evidence of stalls. >
17. Demonstrates 5 landings within 10' of a spot after flights requiring turns on approach.
18. Demonstrates proper airspeed control on landing approach when descending through a gradient.
19. Demonstrates proper airspeed for maximum distance flown into a significant headwind.
20. Demonstrates complete understanding of all Paragliding Tow Discussion Topics (for Tow rated pilots only).
21. Must pass the USHGA Intermediate Paragliding written exam.
22. Must agree to all the provisions of the USHGA standard waiver and assumption of risk agreement for the Intermediate rating and deliver an original signed copy to the USHGA office.
15.02 Recommended Operating Limitations for Intermediate Paraglider Pilots
A. Maximum base wind of 15 m.p.h.
B. Maximum peak gusts to 18 m.p.h.
C. Maximum gust rate of 5 m.p.h. in 5 seconds.
D. Avoid steep turns close to the ground.
E. Avoid application of either brake beyond 3/4 of the way from full off to stall position.
F. Limit turns to bank angles recommended by the manufacturer, limit speed in turns to 2 times the straight line, brakes off, cruise speed, and smoothly exit any spiral turn that shows a tendency to steepen or accelerate.
G. Should initiate downwind turns only with 300' of clearance outward from the hill or ridge in winds above 15 m.p.h., and 200' of clearance in winds above 10 m.p.h. >
H. Should not fly in thermals where peak climb rates exceed 500 fpm or where significant vertical cloud development exists.
I. Upon mastering the above skills, an Intermediate Paragliding Pilot should pursue new maneuvers, sites, and conditions with the guidance of a USHGA Certified Advanced Paragliding Instructor or Observer.
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