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Posted 7 Months, 4 Weeks ago
juanorez
Senior Boarder
Posts: 40
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Awesome HG pilots,

I'm an experienced skydiver that just took his first tandem flight. I'm VERY seriously thinking about getting rid of my rig and picking up a glider. Can someone tell me what the formula is for determining your proper wing span?

In skydiving we usually use a '1 square foot for 1 pound' ratio in canopy sizes. Meaning, if you way 150 lbs. you should be flying a 150 square foot canopy. I assume the same type of measure exists for gliders.

Blue skies (or whatever it is that you guys say)!

Fred Lackey Orlando, Florida
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Posted 7 Months, 4 Weeks ago
Steve_crash
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Posts: 36
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<< Can someone tell me what the formula is for determining your proper wing span? >>

It's not that simple. Beginner/novice gliders tend to have more square footage/lb. than high performance gliders, with intermediate wings somewhere in between. Newer hang gliders also generaly have higher wing loadings than older designs. You mention taking a tandem flight, I'm assuming it was with an instructor. He should be able to help you pick an appropriate wing, both for your skill and size.

Angelo Mantas

Angelo Mantas
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Posted 7 Months, 4 Weeks ago
mal_king
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Posts: 54
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Probably best to consult your instructor. Wing loadings vary somewhat. However, all certified wings will have a recommended (and possibly max and min) flying weight, be that 'all up', or 'clip in'.
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