When practicing landing approaches in a large, open field, it’s easy to overlook your true objectives. A spacious field can make sloppy approaches seem harmless—at worst, you just end up with a longer walk.
Key point: Being too high at the upwind end of the landing area is a critical mistake. Keep this in mind as you practice in larger fields. Overshoot room may dull the sense of urgency, but the fundamentals still apply. Overshooting a short distance is OK. If you practice enough, you can learn to eliminate longer overshoots.
Understand how to enter the approach pattern inside the field, far enough downwind to add some turns—while also managing and avoiding excess upwind altitude.
Core Goals of a Good Landing Approach
Goal 1: Always Reach the Landing Zone (LZ)
This is non-negotiable. Failing to reach the LZ can be dangerous if there are no safe landing alternatives.
How to Achieve Goal 1
- Plan for the LZ from the start: Make reaching it your top priority from launch.
- Avoid distractions: Don’t chase thermals that cost you altitude or course deviation.
- Be altitude-aware: Weak lift can be deceptive—don’t assume a climb unless verified.
- Use instruments wisely: Know how to read your vario confidently.
- Stay conservative: Glide toward the LZ with extra height to reassess calmly.
More info: Flight Path and Plan
Goal 2: Arrive at the Correct Position and Altitude for Final Approach
Aim to be approximately 100 yards downwind of the target and about 40 ft AGL (higher in wind, lower in still air). Use any approach style, but ensure this setup point is reached.
How to Achieve Goal 2
- Approach selection: Wide S-turns or Figure 8s are ideal in larger fields.
- In light wind: Longer S-turns provide better control.
- In high wind or tight terrain: DBF is more precise and often required.
- Note: Some sites (especially in Europe) may mandate DBF with field markings—follow local rules.
Advanced Application: Hybrid Approaches
In fields bordered by trees or obstacles, combine methods:
- Stay over the upwind side, using wide figure 8s to burn altitude.
- Once near tree height, switch to DBF with the base leg upwind of hazards.
- Avoid turns over/behind trees at low altitude—plan ahead to descend safely.
Troubleshooting Lift Near Setup Point
If unexpected lift occurs around 100 yards downwind, ~40 ft AGL:
- Turn 90° to the side to arrest forward motion.
- Use wide S-turns or lateral passes to slow descent.
- If trained, Big Ears can help shed altitude without drifting far.
It’s safer to land short (if clear) than overshoot upwind and risk collision or unsafe turns.
Final Goal: A Safe Landing
All decisions should lead to this outcome:
- Prioritize the LZ from the start.
- Arrive at correct position and altitude.
- Pick the approach best suited for conditions.
- Avoid overshoot mistakes at the upwind end.
Summary Table
| Goal | Description | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Reach the LZ | Always get to the landing field with ample height | Plan early, avoid chasing lift too long |
| 2. Setup Altitude | Be ~40 ft AGL, 100 yards downwind of the target | Use wide S-turns or DBF as needed |
| 3. Safe Landing | Avoid obstacles and maintain control throughout | Stay back if you’re high, react to lift early |
Practice doesn’t just make perfect—it makes safe landings repeatable. Use every landing to reinforce good habits, even in forgiving conditions.
