Areo Tow Signals

Glider Signals:

  • Please show the towpilot your number.
  • Index finger up in a circular fashion = Circuit (800ft max)
  • Fingers touching at tips to form wedge = Hot Springs Mt.
  • Point toward Palomar = Palomar
  • Move hand up & down in a wave motion = WAVE
  • Index finger down in a circular motion & shake head "NO" = No thermalling on tow.
  • Wing level or Close canopy (if no wing runner) = TAKE OUT SLACK
  • AFTER SLACK IS OUT: Thumb up & verbal CLEAR to wing runner, same from wing runner tells you that the pattern is safe for take-off.
  • Fan rudder full left & right (do not hit stops) = READY FOR TAKE-OFF.
  • Rock wings = speed up 5 mph
  • Yaw left/right = slow down 5 mph
  • Move to left side and Rock Wings = unable to release.
  • Move to left/right, line up tail wheel to main of towplane = steering turn (note: you must remain in that position until you want the tug to go straight, use coordinated turns to get into position, DO NOT just rudder out)


Towplane Signals:

  • Fans Rudder = Acknowledges you are ready for take-off.
  • Elevator up & down or flaps up & down = Glider has spoilers open.
  • Fan rudder is also acknowledge of any signal you give the towplane, i.e. speed-up, etc. If you have not given a signal, then this is a recommended release. The tow pilot would recommend release if in good lift or if there is some minor problem.
  • TOWPLANE ROCKS WINGS = Emergency release NOW. If the towplane can rock you off they will, however, if they must they will just give you the rope.
  • Yaw plane left/right = Unable to release; after you signaled you cannot release. This would be done over or near the airport. Then you will have to land under tow.
As PIC you are responsible for aircraft until securely tied-down. Be ready to launch on your turn or go to the end of the line. Tap altimeter before release.

PLEASE CHECK YOUR RELEASE BEFORE GETTING IN LINE, BE READY TO LAUNCH ON YOUR TURN OR GO TO THE END OF THE LINE. NO RIDGE FLYING, FLIGHTS OUTSIDE TEN MILES OR AEROBATICS IN SKY SAILING EQUIPMENT WITHOUT SSWS CFIG SIGN-OFF IN YOUR LOGBOOK.

ALL PILOTS & PASSENGERS MUST HAVE SIGNED SKY SAILING RELEASE BEFORE FLIGHT

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