In light or zero wind, the forward launch is the easiest way to get the Paraglider overhead and launch. The benefits are mostly the elimination of the need to transition from facing the wing to running forward. On the negative side, it is harder to see or guide the wing as it ascends to overhead.
Some pilots can even do forward launches with a light tailwind. In the Alps, such conditions are pretty common. It is almost impossible, in reverse launches, to get the wing overhead and transition to forward when there is even a slight tailwind. With a forward, it is not that difficult to just keep running after the wing is up. Knowing your own ability is the key to deciding which launch will work and if the conditions are within your ability.
The variations of forward launches include the following techniques:
- Torpedo Style with A Risers draped over the elbows and A risers (both or center only) resting in the hands. This is the most common style of forward launch taught by instructors. With modern wings, there has been a movement toward the below technique without the A risers, as most wings come up well without the A risers being leveraged.
- Torpedo Style without A Risers in Hand can be done on many wings, especially modern wings. The main benefit is that the wing comes up slower and this reduces the amount of stabilizing of the wing (aka – checking the wing). I teach this first for most students as it has the highest initial success rate.
- Old Style / A Risers near shoulders (no torpedo). This one is how we launched before the torpedo forward launches came along. The Torpedo style eliminated a different length between the A’s and the rest of the risers. When the A’s are held near the shoulders, the rest of the risers drape more directly toward the wing. This causes some warping of the wing and can cause some deformity to the leading edge as the wing ascends. Regardless, the wing comes up pretty easy with proper use of this technique.
There are some pilots that have shoulder issues or lack the physical ability to drop their chest and raise their hands behind them. In such cases, there are other forward techniques that will work. This technique eliminates the torpedo position and is also easier on the shoulders.
For each of the above, if a pilot is launching alone, while the wing is overhead and being stabilized with the brakes, the pilot should come upright, out of the torpedo (for either “torpedo style” launch methods) and do a quick visual of the wing. During class training, I can be a spotter for the first several launches. This visual is to look for wing deformity caused by a friction knot or twig caught in the lines. Friction knots are easier to see by looking for deformities of the airfoil. In addition or as a better way of looking for a line or other issue with the wing, it is good to have someone watch the wing and have them shout “ABORT!” if there is any issue with the wing, lines or issue with the launch.
As important is that in the torpedo position, make sure you do not lean or fall forward. Instead just bend into the correct torpedo position and run with long, narrow strides, keeping balanced above your feet. If you lean or fall forward, it will result in what we jokingly call “The Worm“. The worm, most of the time, can be funny. At some “real world” launches, this can be very hazardous and not so funny. Take off in the torpedo, avoid jumping into your harness, this can be even more dangerous at real world launches. The last video below shows a worm at 50% speed. In early launch attempts, just move in the direction of the wing (if the wing is on your right or pulling you to the right, veer right and visa versa).
Here are 4 videos showing the Launches and techniques.
1st launch – commentary on a few adjustments and minor mistakes.
Below, a video on the Torpedo Launch, following
getting the wing overhead.
