| After performing the landing checklist, the pilot plans the approach to the landing zone by landing into the wind. With the throttle at idle, or with the engine off the pilot eases in the brakes when at about 3-10 feet off the ground. This slows the glider and reduces the descent rate. |  |
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With one foot ahead of the other, the pilot prepares to make one or two running steps as he touches down. The hands should be at or near the waist at the instant of touch down, thus indicating a full flare and slowest landing speed. |
| The glider (canopy) continues to fly overhead. The pilot maintains control of the canopy and makes sure the engine is turned off. He then makes a 180 degree turn. |  |
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The pilot then uses the brake lines to collapse the canopy, and gently set it down. |
| The glider is in position to do a "reverse launch", which is performed on days when the winds are 8-12 mph. Your professional instructor will teach you both forward launches and reverse launches. |  |