P3 Test – Study Guide (Preview)

  • Know what USHPA’s official recommendations are for reserve chutes.
  • Study the USHPA part 104 and know the recommended operating limitations for Intermediate pilots. Know what is required, what is recommended. Full Set of Rating Criteria is here…

C. Recommended Operating Limitations for Intermediate Paraglider Pilots

  1. Maximum base wind of 15 m.p.h.
  2. Maximum peak gusts to 18 m.p.h.
  3. Maximum gust rate of 5 m.p.h. in 5 seconds.
  4. Avoid steep turns close to the ground.
  5. Avoid application of either brake beyond 3/4 of the way from full off to stall position.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. Should not fly in thermals where peak climb rates exceed 500 fpm or where significant vertical cloud development exists.
  9. Upon mastering the above skills, an Intermediate Paragliding Pilot should pursue new maneuvers, sites, and conditions with the guidance of a USHPA Certified Advanced Paragliding Instructor or Observer.
  • Be ……

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