PPG 2 PL (Precision Landing)
After getting instructor input the Training Committee changed the PPG 2 landing requirement to better reflect what instructors are seeing in the field. They found that new students are almost universally unable to comply with the spot landing requirement of consistently landing within 40 feet of a target, power off, from at least 300′ within even their first 30 flights. That power-off landing requirement is now 100′, a value that instructors find is realistic.
The 40′ spot landing is now a special skill, PPG 2 PL (Precision Landing). So a student can get his PPG2 rating but will not likely get the PPG 2 PL sign off until gaining experience and then, at a later date, demonstrating the PPG 2 PL skills. He can do this demonstration to any USPPA instructor. That instructor can sign him off online and no syllabus submission is required if ONLY the special skill is being added.
- Published in Training Updates, Updates
Instructor Admin List
A list of Instructor Admins has been added on the Schools Page.
- Published in Training Updates, Updates
Exemption Denial
Read more about the FAA’s Exemption Denial here.
FAA Exemption Request Denial
The FAA has denied our request for an exemption of FAR 103.1 to allow wheeled tandems saying that, among other things, they are no longer going to approve exemptions of definitions. So if we want to apply for a wheeled exemption, it would have to be under the Light Sport Rules. This also implies that future foot-launch tandem exemptions will have to be done in the same way.
Since foot launched craft are not part of the Light Sport Rules, this makes no sense. We will be exploring options.
It does not change operations under our existing exemption but does mean that a different tact will need to be steered.
Used Gear For Sale
The link for used gear has been added to our new site under the “More” menu.
- Published in Updates
Training Update
Learn about the Trimmer Speedbar Interconnect.
- Published in Training Updates, Updates
Speedbar Trimmer Interconnect
Many, if not most, competition pylon racing wings are now coming with, or have an optional Speedbar Trimmer Interconnect (STI) system. It is intended to put most speed control, including trimmers, in the speedbar. Basically, pressing the speedbar activates the speedsystem AND lets up the trimmers.
As this is a test question on the new PPG 3 exam, we wanted to provide some educational material on it for reference. Please do not copy or redisplay this illustration; it is provided here by permission.
It is a schematic to illustrate the basic concept of system operation. Since pressure is so much higher on the A’s, the default condition when armed is no speedbar, trims slow (or neutral depending on glider).
A failure of the interconnect line will let the wing go to the trimmer selected setting which would normally be fast if the system is in use.
In a front tuck situation the system would allow the trimmers to go full fast on the tucked side. This is clearly a design for experienced pilots who will react properly to dynamic situations with quick and appropriate responses. Even then, it is largely experimental (as are most pylon racing wings) and is not likely to be certified in any way.
As always, pilots should base their understanding on a careful reading of the wing’s Pilot Manual.
This is commonly called the PK System, named after its inventor Paap Kolar.
- Published in Training Updates
Soar the Shore 2015
Our Fall flying event @ Campbell Field Airport, Sep 10 – 13, 2015. Camp In / Fly In. Bring your camper, tent, PPG, PPC, PG, Tow, Ultralite, Motor Bike, Cooler, BBQ Meat, etc The flying is amazing down at Campbell. Ocean 1.5 miles East, Bay 1.5 West. For those that attended Soar the Shore 2014 – please help spread the word how awesome it is! Just Google Weirwood Virginia and the pin will pop up right near the field. Please invite others and help spread the word.
- Published in USPPA Events
Spring Wing 2015
Campbell Field Airport, May 21 – 25, 2015. Camp In / Fly In. Bring your camper, tent, PPG, PPC, PG, Tow, Ultralight, Motor Bike, Cooler, BBQ Meat, etc.. It’s going to be another awesome fly-in and fun weekend. Just Google Weirwood Virginia and the pin will pop up right near the field. Please invite others and help spread the word.
- Published in USPPA Events